Jeff Rathke
@jeffrathke.bsky.social
Pres. American-German Institute; ex-diplomat; ex-CSIS; Pittsburgher
Einige Passagen der Rubio-Rede hätten von Björn Höcke geschrieben werden können. „…von Schuld und Scham gefesselt“ passt in die Reihe mit Höcke‘s „Denkmal der Schande“ Formulierung
February 16, 2026 at 10:58 AM
Einige Passagen der Rubio-Rede hätten von Björn Höcke geschrieben werden können. „…von Schuld und Scham gefesselt“ passt in die Reihe mit Höcke‘s „Denkmal der Schande“ Formulierung
Gestern durfte ich mit @sarananni.bsky.social , @nicolekoenig.bsky.social + @helgaschmidt.bsky.social die Ergebnisse der MSC 2026 diskutieren. Danke an die Petra-Kelly-Stiftung und @margaretebause.bsky.social für die Einladung, und an Birgit Frank für Moderation
www.youtube.com/live/Yru_cr7...
www.youtube.com/live/Yru_cr7...
Die 62. Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz. Eine Nachbetrachtung
YouTube video by PresseClub München
www.youtube.com
February 16, 2026 at 10:47 AM
Gestern durfte ich mit @sarananni.bsky.social , @nicolekoenig.bsky.social + @helgaschmidt.bsky.social die Ergebnisse der MSC 2026 diskutieren. Danke an die Petra-Kelly-Stiftung und @margaretebause.bsky.social für die Einladung, und an Birgit Frank für Moderation
www.youtube.com/live/Yru_cr7...
www.youtube.com/live/Yru_cr7...
Hab‘ die Ehre gehabt, mit @ndr.de die Ergebnisse der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz zu diskutieren - vielen Dank für die Einladung!
: „Rubios Botschaft war die gleiche wie die von Vance, besser verpackt”
www.ndr.de/nachrichten/... www.ndr.de/nachrichten/...
: „Rubios Botschaft war die gleiche wie die von Vance, besser verpackt”
www.ndr.de/nachrichten/... www.ndr.de/nachrichten/...
Rubios Botschaft war die gleiche wie die von Vance, besser verpackt
Rubios Botschaft war die gleiche wie die von Vance, besser verpackt
www.ndr.de
February 16, 2026 at 9:57 AM
Hab‘ die Ehre gehabt, mit @ndr.de die Ergebnisse der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz zu diskutieren - vielen Dank für die Einladung!
: „Rubios Botschaft war die gleiche wie die von Vance, besser verpackt”
www.ndr.de/nachrichten/... www.ndr.de/nachrichten/...
: „Rubios Botschaft war die gleiche wie die von Vance, besser verpackt”
www.ndr.de/nachrichten/... www.ndr.de/nachrichten/...
@nicolange.bsky.social hat recht - gute Folge des @annewill.bsky.social -Podcasts, sehr hörenswert
#msc26
Wer noch eine kompakte (knapp 33 Minuten) und erfrischend klare Analyse zur Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz hören oder sehen möchte, hier ein Gespräch zwischen @annewill.bsky.social und @nicolange.bsky.social.
Wer noch eine kompakte (knapp 33 Minuten) und erfrischend klare Analyse zur Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz hören oder sehen möchte, hier ein Gespräch zwischen @annewill.bsky.social und @nicolange.bsky.social.
Wo steht die Welt nach der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz? Mit Nico Lange (Anne Will @ MSC)
YouTube video by Politik mit Anne Will
youtu.be
February 16, 2026 at 8:50 AM
@nicolange.bsky.social hat recht - gute Folge des @annewill.bsky.social -Podcasts, sehr hörenswert
Habe mich riesig gefreut! Danke an das Politikteil für die Einladung!
Morgen gibt es eine Extrafolge von #daspolitikteil, dem politischen Podcast @diezeit.bsky.social , zur #MSC2026. Am außenpolitischen #roundtable bilanzieren wir die Sicherheitskonferenz. Die Lage ist ernst, die Stimmung war gut @havpost.bsky.social Lea #Frehse Peter #Dausend @jeffrathke.bsky.social
February 15, 2026 at 4:40 PM
Habe mich riesig gefreut! Danke an das Politikteil für die Einladung!
Outstanding and timely report from @noahbarkin.bsky.social and his Rhodium Group colleagues - a must-read for those interested in German and European economic relations with China 👇
Two weeks before Chancellor Friedrich Merz makes his first trip to China, my Rhodium Group colleague Gregor Williams and I have taken a fresh look at the numbers behind Germany’s economic relationship with China.
rhg.com/research/ger...
rhg.com/research/ger...
Germany’s “China Shock” Revisited
Over the past year, German political leaders, central bankers, business associations and unions have begun talking openly about the risks of a “China shock.” The rhetoric, however, has not been matche...
rhg.com
February 10, 2026 at 3:45 PM
Outstanding and timely report from @noahbarkin.bsky.social and his Rhodium Group colleagues - a must-read for those interested in German and European economic relations with China 👇
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Full note here:
Germany’s “China Shock” Revisited
Over the past year, German political leaders, central bankers, business associations and unions have begun talking openly about the risks of a “China shock.” The rhetoric, however, has not been matched by decisive policy action.
rhg.com
February 10, 2026 at 12:37 PM
Full note here:
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Poles no longer trusting the US for protection is a really big story. 27% of respondents see EU states as main source of assistance in emergency vs 15% the Americans. That said nearly 25% say Poland cannot on either US or EU states.
h/t @euractiv.com
h/t @euractiv.com
UE czy USA?
Według badania przeprowadzonego przez Opinia24 na zlecenie RMF FM w obliczu potencjalnego zagrożenia Polacy częściej liczą na wsparcie europejskich sąsiadów niż na pomoc zza oceanu. Najnowszy sondaż u...
www.rmf24.pl
February 10, 2026 at 9:07 AM
Poles no longer trusting the US for protection is a really big story. 27% of respondents see EU states as main source of assistance in emergency vs 15% the Americans. That said nearly 25% say Poland cannot on either US or EU states.
h/t @euractiv.com
h/t @euractiv.com
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Moskau versucht, den Friedensprozess durch Korruption zu zerstören: Ein Mega‑Wirtschaftspaket soll die USA vom geopolitischen Gegner zum Geschäftspartner machen. Wer vermeintlich Milliarden oder "Billionen" verdienen kann, stellt keine Sicherheitsgarantien mehr. 1/
February 9, 2026 at 8:42 AM
Moskau versucht, den Friedensprozess durch Korruption zu zerstören: Ein Mega‑Wirtschaftspaket soll die USA vom geopolitischen Gegner zum Geschäftspartner machen. Wer vermeintlich Milliarden oder "Billionen" verdienen kann, stellt keine Sicherheitsgarantien mehr. 1/
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
FT exclusive:
“The US state department is set to fund Maga-aligned think-tanks and charities across Europe to disseminate Washington’s policy positions and challenge perceived threats to free speech.”
via @annasophiegross.bsky.social and colleagues
“The US state department is set to fund Maga-aligned think-tanks and charities across Europe to disseminate Washington’s policy positions and challenge perceived threats to free speech.”
via @annasophiegross.bsky.social and colleagues
February 5, 2026 at 11:39 PM
FT exclusive:
“The US state department is set to fund Maga-aligned think-tanks and charities across Europe to disseminate Washington’s policy positions and challenge perceived threats to free speech.”
via @annasophiegross.bsky.social and colleagues
“The US state department is set to fund Maga-aligned think-tanks and charities across Europe to disseminate Washington’s policy positions and challenge perceived threats to free speech.”
via @annasophiegross.bsky.social and colleagues
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
A real change in how Germany approaches the EU is happening. Berlin used to prioritise the unity of the 27 and now seems much more open towards coalitions of the willing.
Next step is initiative by Finance minister Klingenbeil to build an avant-garde with 🇫🇷🇵🇱🇮🇹🇳🇱🇪🇸:
Next step is initiative by Finance minister Klingenbeil to build an avant-garde with 🇫🇷🇵🇱🇮🇹🇳🇱🇪🇸:
Six EU countries hold call in push for 'two‑speed' Europe
Ministers from six leading European economies, including Germany and France, will discuss on Wednesday plans to push ahead with joint projects without the rest of the EU, to facilitate agile decision-...
www.reuters.com
January 28, 2026 at 3:47 PM
A real change in how Germany approaches the EU is happening. Berlin used to prioritise the unity of the 27 and now seems much more open towards coalitions of the willing.
Next step is initiative by Finance minister Klingenbeil to build an avant-garde with 🇫🇷🇵🇱🇮🇹🇳🇱🇪🇸:
Next step is initiative by Finance minister Klingenbeil to build an avant-garde with 🇫🇷🇵🇱🇮🇹🇳🇱🇪🇸:
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
The mother of all diversification partnerships.
My @tagesspiegel.de piece (in 🇩🇪) on the meaning of India-EU trade agreement.
Congratulations on everyone on both sides who worked hard to close the deal(s).
Real work of making the most of this historic opportunity starts now.
My @tagesspiegel.de piece (in 🇩🇪) on the meaning of India-EU trade agreement.
Congratulations on everyone on both sides who worked hard to close the deal(s).
Real work of making the most of this historic opportunity starts now.
January 28, 2026 at 3:14 PM
The mother of all diversification partnerships.
My @tagesspiegel.de piece (in 🇩🇪) on the meaning of India-EU trade agreement.
Congratulations on everyone on both sides who worked hard to close the deal(s).
Real work of making the most of this historic opportunity starts now.
My @tagesspiegel.de piece (in 🇩🇪) on the meaning of India-EU trade agreement.
Congratulations on everyone on both sides who worked hard to close the deal(s).
Real work of making the most of this historic opportunity starts now.
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
73% of EU citizens polled think that when it comes to defence, Europe "must now rely solely on itself, without counting on the support of the United States"
January 28, 2026 at 7:04 AM
73% of EU citizens polled think that when it comes to defence, Europe "must now rely solely on itself, without counting on the support of the United States"
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
We want strong trans-Atlantic ties.
But Europe needs to adapt to new realities.
It is no longer Washington’s primary centre of gravity.
It’s time for Europe to step up and act with urgency.
Extract of my speech at the European Defence Agency conference ↓
But Europe needs to adapt to new realities.
It is no longer Washington’s primary centre of gravity.
It’s time for Europe to step up and act with urgency.
Extract of my speech at the European Defence Agency conference ↓
January 28, 2026 at 1:37 PM
We want strong trans-Atlantic ties.
But Europe needs to adapt to new realities.
It is no longer Washington’s primary centre of gravity.
It’s time for Europe to step up and act with urgency.
Extract of my speech at the European Defence Agency conference ↓
But Europe needs to adapt to new realities.
It is no longer Washington’s primary centre of gravity.
It’s time for Europe to step up and act with urgency.
Extract of my speech at the European Defence Agency conference ↓
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Trump: "Based upon a very productive meeting I had with Mark Rutte, we have formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region. This solution, if consummated, will be a great one... Based upon this understanding, I will not be imposing the Tariffs"
January 21, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Trump: "Based upon a very productive meeting I had with Mark Rutte, we have formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region. This solution, if consummated, will be a great one... Based upon this understanding, I will not be imposing the Tariffs"
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
#Polen gibt die Zielstruktur seiner #Streitkräfte 2039 bekannt:
Die Gesamtstärke: 500.000 - davon 300.000 aktive Soldatinnen und Soldaten sowie 200.000 Reservisten.
defence24.com/armed-forces...
Die Gesamtstärke: 500.000 - davon 300.000 aktive Soldatinnen und Soldaten sowie 200.000 Reservisten.
defence24.com/armed-forces...
Revolution in the Polish Armed Forces: Details revealed
The General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces has released details on the implementation of a new development plan for 2025–2039.
defence24.com
January 20, 2026 at 2:01 PM
#Polen gibt die Zielstruktur seiner #Streitkräfte 2039 bekannt:
Die Gesamtstärke: 500.000 - davon 300.000 aktive Soldatinnen und Soldaten sowie 200.000 Reservisten.
defence24.com/armed-forces...
Die Gesamtstärke: 500.000 - davon 300.000 aktive Soldatinnen und Soldaten sowie 200.000 Reservisten.
defence24.com/armed-forces...
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
der versuch mit rationalen argumenten ein irrationales argument zu beantworten funktioniert nicht.
auf dieses irrationale machtargument muss man letztendlich mit machtargumenten antworten.
true!
@claudmajor.bsky.social 👇
auf dieses irrationale machtargument muss man letztendlich mit machtargumenten antworten.
true!
@claudmajor.bsky.social 👇
January 18, 2026 at 8:55 PM
der versuch mit rationalen argumenten ein irrationales argument zu beantworten funktioniert nicht.
auf dieses irrationale machtargument muss man letztendlich mit machtargumenten antworten.
true!
@claudmajor.bsky.social 👇
auf dieses irrationale machtargument muss man letztendlich mit machtargumenten antworten.
true!
@claudmajor.bsky.social 👇
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Gemeinsame Erklärung von Dänemark, Finnland, Frankreich, Deutschland, den Niederlanden, Norwegen, Schweden und dem Vereinigten Königreich.
January 18, 2026 at 8:01 PM
Gemeinsame Erklärung von Dänemark, Finnland, Frankreich, Deutschland, den Niederlanden, Norwegen, Schweden und dem Vereinigten Königreich.
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Why America still needs Europe
US firms sell $3.6 trillion worth of stuff to Europeans. There are valuable military bases across Europe that allow America to project power globally. And the US is infinitely more powerful as the leader of The West, ie with Europe
www.economist.com/europe/2025/...
US firms sell $3.6 trillion worth of stuff to Europeans. There are valuable military bases across Europe that allow America to project power globally. And the US is infinitely more powerful as the leader of The West, ie with Europe
www.economist.com/europe/2025/...
Why America still needs Europe
Without European “followership”, America ceases to be a leader
www.economist.com
January 17, 2026 at 7:13 PM
Why America still needs Europe
US firms sell $3.6 trillion worth of stuff to Europeans. There are valuable military bases across Europe that allow America to project power globally. And the US is infinitely more powerful as the leader of The West, ie with Europe
www.economist.com/europe/2025/...
US firms sell $3.6 trillion worth of stuff to Europeans. There are valuable military bases across Europe that allow America to project power globally. And the US is infinitely more powerful as the leader of The West, ie with Europe
www.economist.com/europe/2025/...
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
First statement from Macron:
“Tariff threats are unacceptable and have no place in this context. Should they materialise, Europeans will respond in a united and coordinated manner. We will ensure that European sovereignty is upheld. In this spirit, I will speak with our European partners.”
“Tariff threats are unacceptable and have no place in this context. Should they materialise, Europeans will respond in a united and coordinated manner. We will ensure that European sovereignty is upheld. In this spirit, I will speak with our European partners.”
January 17, 2026 at 7:06 PM
First statement from Macron:
“Tariff threats are unacceptable and have no place in this context. Should they materialise, Europeans will respond in a united and coordinated manner. We will ensure that European sovereignty is upheld. In this spirit, I will speak with our European partners.”
“Tariff threats are unacceptable and have no place in this context. Should they materialise, Europeans will respond in a united and coordinated manner. We will ensure that European sovereignty is upheld. In this spirit, I will speak with our European partners.”
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Shameful and destructive
Trump: "Starting Feb 1, all above mentioned Countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, UK, Netherlands, & Finland), will be charged a 10% Tariff. On June 1, it will be increased to 25%. It will be due until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland."
January 17, 2026 at 6:17 PM
Shameful and destructive
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Woah Nellie, Trump rekindles the trade war with Europe over Greenland.
The President announces 10% tariffs on France, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK (yes), Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia.
The tariffs will rise to 25% on June 1st unless Greenland is sold to the US.
1/
The President announces 10% tariffs on France, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK (yes), Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia.
The tariffs will rise to 25% on June 1st unless Greenland is sold to the US.
1/
January 17, 2026 at 5:29 PM
Woah Nellie, Trump rekindles the trade war with Europe over Greenland.
The President announces 10% tariffs on France, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK (yes), Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia.
The tariffs will rise to 25% on June 1st unless Greenland is sold to the US.
1/
The President announces 10% tariffs on France, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK (yes), Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia.
The tariffs will rise to 25% on June 1st unless Greenland is sold to the US.
1/
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
The Danish Armed Forces have released new photos from the operation that, over the past few days, has deployed Danish and allied reinforcements to Greenland.
January 15, 2026 at 8:47 PM
The Danish Armed Forces have released new photos from the operation that, over the past few days, has deployed Danish and allied reinforcements to Greenland.
Reposted by Jeff Rathke
Telling interview with German defence minister Pistorius. He goes out of his way to stress that the German soldiers on their way to Greenland are to deter Russia & China, not the US. Tries to argue that he does not believe the US will actually seize Greenland by force, referring to Congress.
January 15, 2026 at 8:58 PM
Telling interview with German defence minister Pistorius. He goes out of his way to stress that the German soldiers on their way to Greenland are to deter Russia & China, not the US. Tries to argue that he does not believe the US will actually seize Greenland by force, referring to Congress.
The righteous opposition to a U.S. attempt to annex Greenland is focused justifiably at this point on a) the will of the people of Greenland and Denmark, b) the catastrophic effect it would have on America's most important alliance, NATO, and c) the breach of int'l law and erosion of int'l norms 1/
not mentioned anywhere in this article: where and how the administration would allocate $700B from, even if greenland were willing to accept it, which they are not.
Buying Greenland could cost as much as $700 billion
The estimate is part of planning around Trump’s efforts to bring Greenland into the U.S. fold, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio tasked with crafting a proposal to purchase the semi-autonomous Dani...
www.nbcnews.com
January 14, 2026 at 11:21 PM
The righteous opposition to a U.S. attempt to annex Greenland is focused justifiably at this point on a) the will of the people of Greenland and Denmark, b) the catastrophic effect it would have on America's most important alliance, NATO, and c) the breach of int'l law and erosion of int'l norms 1/