In Germany, officials warn that Europe cannot ignore conflict with US - Bloomberg
Photo: German Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil (Getty Images)
In Germany, officials are warning that differences with the US are widening and are urging Europe not to be naive in its relations with Washington, according to a statement by German Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil, Bloomberg reports.
Klingbeil noted that differences between Europe and the US are becoming increasingly apparent, and the European Union should not turn a blind eye to these shifts in relations.
According to the politician, this could negatively affect the transatlantic partnership and global economic stability. He added that it would be "bad for the world" if Europe and the US begin drifting apart.
Background of US–EU differences
The German minister made these comments ahead of an important international meeting of finance ministers in Washington, hosted by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The agenda includes reducing dependence on China for the supply of critical raw materials.
Klingbeil noted that although his recent meeting with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was positive, Europe cannot afford to be "naive and blind" to modern international challenges.
Tensions in the relationship stem from recent US actions, including the deployment of military personnel in Venezuela and threats concerning Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.
Klingbeil also emphasized that international law must be respected by all countries, including the US, and that Greenland’s territorial sovereignty should be resolved without external pressure.
Against this backdrop, ministers will also discuss how to secure access to rare and strategic materials essential for modern technologies and strengthen cooperation with allies.
Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is also in the US, working to restore closer transatlantic ties.
Europe is seeking ways to protect Greenland from US President Donald Trump.
The Greenland issue came into focus after Kathy Miller, the wife of Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Trump, published an image of the island’s map colored in the US flag’s design.
