Terrorism is met with concerted opposition not just from the European Union, but on a broader international scale.
In a speech delivered on 16 August 2025, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chairwoman of the Bundestag's defense committee and an EU foreign policy expert, expressed skepticism about the Alaska summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
Strack-Zimmermann questioned the summit's usefulness and outcomes, implying concern about Europe's military weakness. She expressed doubts about Russia’s sincerity in negotiations due to past breaches of agreements and a history of mistrust about Russia’s intentions under Putin’s leadership.
However, she acknowledged that the summit brought at least one positive message, though she remained cautious overall.
In response to the summit, Strack-Zimmermann advocated for Europe to take a more active role in geopolitics. She urged Europe to show more courage in its foreign policy decisions and called for increased economic and military support for Ukraine.
Strack-Zimmermann strongly opposes any territorial concessions and advocates a clear no to such concessions. She expressed concern about Putin's influence on the international stage, claiming that he is triumphing on the international stage.
The FDP politician also criticized Trump's handling of international affairs, stating that he is failing to keep his promises. She urged Europe to take responsibility in the current geopolitical climate, suggesting that it needs to be more proactive in shaping the world order.
The specific details about any proposed actions by Europe in response to Strack-Zimmermann's call were not provided in the sources.
[1] Welt News Channel, "Strack-Zimmermann Skeptical About Trump-Putin Summit," 16 August 2025. [2] The Guardian, "Strack-Zimmermann Urges Europe to Take More Responsibility," 17 August 2025. [3] Deutsche Welle, "Strack-Zimmermann Warns Against Negotiating with Russia," 18 August 2025.
- Strack-Zimmermann raised concerns about the policy-and-legislation implications of Europe's role in global politics, urging for more assertive foreign policy decisions.
- In the aftermath of the Alaska summit, the general-news media reported Strack-Zimmermann's call for increased economic and military support for Ukraine, as part of her efforts to counter Russia's influence.
