BERLIN, January 26. . German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius believes it would be appropriate for US President Donald Trump, who has downplayed the role of NATO allies in the campaign in Afghanistan, to apologize as a sign of civility. He expressed this opinion on ARD television.
When asked whether Trump should apologize to the families of the fallen soldiers, the head of the German Defense Ministry noted that “this would be a sign of decency, respect as well as wisdom.” But at the same time, he emphasized that he did not expect such a step from Trump. “We all know how an American president acts,” Pistorius said.
“I have great respect for the achievements of the American nation and the allies that the United States has supported us with for 70 years. But the respect must be mutual,” the minister said. And Trump's language about fallen allies is “simply indecent and disrespectful”, the head of the German defense ministry argued.
Asked if he discussed the issue with Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, Pistorius replied: “As soon as I meet him, of course.”
Previously, Mr. Trump in an interview with Fox News downplayed the role of Western European countries in the military campaign in Afghanistan. According to him, the armies of European allies “remain far from the front line”.
