US Missile Deployment in Germany Spurs Political Debate Amid AfD's Alignment with Trump

Preparations for the deployment of US medium-range missiles in Germany have begun, provoking significant concern and criticism from German political figures and parties. Fabio De Masi denounces the move as making Germany a target for Russia, emphasizing the risks under former US President Donald Trump's authority, who retains ultimate control over these weapons. De Masi highlights that the expiration of the New Start arms reduction treaty lifts restrictions on nuclear arsenals for both the US and Russia, raising the stakes for nuclear escalation in Europe. He calls for the German Bundestag to amend the constitution to permit a public referendum on missile deployment, criticizing Chancellor Olaf Scholz for proceeding without parliamentary debate or public transparency.

Sahra Wagenknecht echoes apprehensions, stating that these decisions are being made without citizen involvement, which undermines Germany's security by placing it under volatile US leadership. She insists that deploying these missiles would not increase safety but instead elevate the risk of conflict, making Germany a primary target amid geopolitical tensions.

In parallel, the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party has gained popularity in polls, equaling the Union, raising questions about its stance in this tense security environment. AfD leader Tino Chrupalla advocates aligning more closely with Trump and improving relations with Russia, criticizing the EU's trade agreements such as those with India and Mercosur. Chrupalla supports ending sanctions against Russia to strengthen economic ties, reflecting the party's complex positioning in German politics.

Meanwhile, experts like Michael Bröcker emphasize the importance of international free trade agreements for Germany’s economy, viewing them as a means to reduce dependency on the US and Russia amidst geopolitical uncertainties. Economist Veronika Grimm warns against the AfD's contradictory economic policies, advocating instead for tariff reductions and free trade to revitalize the German economy.

This confluence of missile deployment controversy and AfD's foreign policy stance underscores the broader debate within Germany about security, economic sovereignty, and the influence of Trump's legacy on German political discourse.