“There are proactive ways to engage without antagonizing President Trump unnecessarily,” he suggested.
Approach Trump Positively
European leaders should emulate NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who has avoided provoking Trump by supporting the stance on Iran. The recommended strategy is to work with Trump by offering praise and enthusiasm, as he is aiding them, Volker noted.
He urged German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to be more charming toward Trump. While Germany has not restricted its Ramstein air base, Merz has maintained a cordial relationship with Trump and acknowledged the current difficulty in U.S.-Germany relations.
Merz has been more reserved compared to Starmer, and Trump has responded in kind. “Unlike Keir Starmer, who draws Trump’s ire occasionally, Trump does not target Merz personally,” Volker mentioned.
Merz has invited Trump to his grandfather’s birthplace in Germany, with the hope that Trump will feel respected during the visit, satisfying his desire for respect.
Volker defended Trump’s Iran policies, which have unsettled many European leaders. Trump’s stance has shifted from ending hostilities to threatening severe actions against Iran.
“He uses harsh rhetoric and extreme stances to project strength and compel the Iranians’ attention,” Volker explained.
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