Pistorius Calls for European Self-Assurance
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has issued a strong appeal to European countries, urging them to engage with Washington with increased confidence and to resist succumbing to 'fear-driven politics' influenced by Donald Trump. In an interview with the RND media group (RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland) on January 31, 2026, Pistorius stated that U.S. President Donald Trump 'relies on uncertainty and fear to achieve his goals,' adding that 'those who are afraid make the wrong decisions.' He stressed that Europe should not allow itself to be intimidated and must instead focus on becoming 'more sovereign and independent.'
Context of Transatlantic Relations
Pistorius's remarks come amidst renewed pressure from Trump, particularly concerning issues such as Greenland and broader transatlantic relations. The Defence Minister highlighted Trump's increasing unpredictability, referencing a hypothetical scenario where a U.S. president might consider military action regarding Greenland. He underscored the mutual dependence between the United States and Europe, asserting Europe's significant geostrategic and geoeconomic importance to the U.S. Pistorius warned that if Europe were to fall into Russia's sphere of influence, the U.S. would find itself 'strategically squeezed between Russia and China,' a situation he believes would not serve American interests.
Emphasis on European Sovereignty and Defence
The German Defence Minister further articulated that Europe should not 'stare at the White House like a rabbit at a snake,' but rather concentrate on bolstering its own sovereignty, independence, and defence capabilities. This sentiment aligns with previous statements made by Pistorius regarding the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security.
Previous Engagements with US Political Figures
This is not the first instance where Pistorius has publicly addressed concerns related to U.S. politics. On January 26, 2026, he called on Donald Trump to apologize for remarks suggesting that NATO allies in Afghanistan had avoided frontline service, describing such comments as 'indecent and disrespectful' to the sacrifices made by troops. Furthermore, on February 14, 2025, Pistorius criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance's speech at the Munich Security Conference, where Vance compared parts of Europe to authoritarian regimes, a comparison Pistorius deemed 'not acceptable.' These instances collectively illustrate Pistorius's consistent stance on advocating for European strength and a balanced transatlantic partnership.
5 Comments
Noir Black
He's right, the US needs Europe just as much. Mutual respect is key.
Loubianka
Alienating the US is a huge mistake. Europe can't defend itself alone.
Katchuka
Excellent call for European confidence. It's time we acted like a major power.
KittyKat
Easy to say, harder to do. Europe isn't ready for full independence.
Eugene Alta
While Trump's unpredictability is a valid concern for European leaders, painting the US as purely adversarial is counterproductive. A strong, confident Europe should still aim for a strong partnership with America, not a separation.