As a dual citizen of the U.S. and Germany, I have always taken the trans-Atlantic bond for granted. However, the rift between the United States and Europe is widening, threatening to snap the geopolitical fault line that has long united these two tectonic plates of geopolitics. While the rift may not be visible on the surface, the deepening divide is becoming increasingly apparent in world affairs.
European NATO members have historically relied on U.S. military might, skimping on defense spending and frustrating American taxpayers and policymakers. Although some countries are now increasing their defense budgets, it may not be enough to bridge the growing gap between the U.S. and Europe.
It is a sad trend in world affairs, and one that hits close to home for me as a dual citizen. The widening Atlantic rift serves as a sobering reminder of the fragile nature of international relations and the importance of maintaining strong trans-Atlantic ties.