In a recent opinion piece for Deutsche Welle, German security expert Oliver Rolofs argued that “disruptive” proposals from President Donald Trump should prompt Europeans to think beyond their traditional frameworks.
Rolofs highlights a survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations, showing that the majority of EU citizens no longer view the United States under Trump as a reliable ally on key international issues. Trump’s proposals, including the annexation of Greenland, the purchase of Gaza, and his blunt rhetoric on Ukraine, have unsettled the global stage, already in turmoil without his influence.
Trump’s foreign policy, according to Rolofs, may appear unrealistic or even unlawful, but it forces both allies and adversaries to rethink their strategies. European countries, he suggests, should not just escalate rhetoric or retaliate with counter-tariffs. Instead, they should seek practical and strategic alliances, notably with countries like Israel, rather than attempting to please all sides in conflicts.
Rolofs also recalls Trump’s role in facilitating the Abraham Accords, showing that agreements in the Middle East are still possible even among sworn enemies. He urges Europe to follow this example and focus on concrete solutions, especially in the Middle East, rather than engaging in endless debates about unachievable goals.
The upcoming Munich Security Conference, he concludes, offers an opportunity for European leaders to break free from old mental frameworks and adopt a more pragmatic approach to international diplomacy.
