New book urges Europe to break free from America's shadow and stand alone
Holger Stark, a senior editor at Die Zeit, has released a new book examining Germany's relationship with the United States. Titled The Grown-Up Country, the work critiques America's global influence and calls for Europe to take greater control of its own security and future.
Stark argues that Germany has long served as America's 'unsinkable aircraft carrier', giving Washington significant leverage in negotiations. He describes Europe as being in a 'pitiful state of dependence' on a U.S. government he believes has lost direction.
The book combines personal observations with historical analysis to explain why economically struggling Americans embrace nationalist slogans like Make America Great Again. Stark also explores how this political climate affects transatlantic relations.
His proposals include strengthening Europe's military capabilities and even expanding the EU to include Canada. A key recommendation is developing a unified European defence industry to reduce reliance on U.S. technology. Stark frames the current geopolitical tensions as a chance for Europe to rethink its security strategy and alliances.
Published by Propylaen, the book is described as a detailed and well-researched examination of German-American dynamics. Critics, however, note that it does not address specific U.S. and NATO decisions from the 1990s and 2000s that some see as contributing to today's conflicts in Eastern Europe and Ukraine.
Stark's central message is clear: Germany must assert its independence and 'grow up' as a nation. The book pushes for a more self-reliant Europe, capable of facing future threats without depending on shifting U.S. priorities. Whether these ideas gain traction remains to be seen.
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