Europe cannot afford to cut US ties, warns Bavaria's Söder at Munich
Bavarian leader Markus Söder has warned against Europe overestimating its independence from the US in defence and security. Speaking on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, he described the transatlantic partnership as essential for Europe’s future. His remarks came during an interview with German broadcaster Welt. Söder compared US-EU relations to a strained partnership needing careful attention. He urged European leaders to stay level-headed and avoid pushing Washington away. At the same time, he stressed the importance of giving the US clear guidance on Europe’s priorities.
The Bavarian minister praised Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s balanced approach—strengthening US ties while asserting European interests. Yet he dismissed the idea of Germany taking on a nuclear role, calling it legally and practically unfeasible. On France’s nuclear arsenal, Söder saw a potential supporting role but warned against full reliance. He called it a *serious mistake* to depend solely on Paris for deterrence, insisting no single European power could replace US protection. Söder also doubted Europe’s ability to stand alone militarily, digitally, or economically. Without American backing, he argued, the continent would struggle to ensure its security and prosperity.
Söder’s comments highlight Europe’s ongoing dependence on the US for defence and strategic stability. His warnings reflect broader concerns about balancing autonomy with transatlantic cooperation. The debate comes as leaders grapple with shifting global power dynamics.
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