Diplomacy FDP President Burkart questions the reliability of the USA
In an interview, FDP President Thierry Burkart expressed his concern that the reliability of the USA is in question. "Within a short space of time, Donald Trump has elevated uncertainty to a political principle," Burkart told the Tamedia newspapers on Thursday.
06.03.2025, 04:45
06.03.2025, 07:36
SDA
The USA is moving away from a classic liberal democracy and is increasingly pursuing a hard-nosed power policy. In doing so, they were partly moving into the mindset of autocratic states. This could have long-term economic consequences, particularly for the USA itself.
Switzerland must react to this geopolitical uncertainty, emphasized Burkart. It needs clear security and defense policy priorities in order to face up to the changed situation. At the same time, however, it must not "lapse into hyperactivity in terms of foreign policy".
The FDP politician called for the Federal Council to "finally reach a security policy consensus in terms of an overall defense strategy" after three years of war in Ukraine. The army plays a central role in this, although not the only one.
"We should give preference to European providers"
When asked whether it was a mistake to have relied on American products for the renewal of air defense, Burkart said: "In the case of equivalent offers, we should give preference to European suppliers in order to strengthen their industry and make us less dependent on the USA". Nevertheless, the American arms industry is so dominant that Switzerland has hardly any alternatives in certain areas.
The procurement of the F-35 fighter jet has been underway for several years. To cancel this now would be wrong and would lead to a glaring gap in Swiss air defense, Burkart continued.
Burkart emphasized that Switzerland must focus on its role as a reliable partner in the current global situation. Neutrality does not mean neutrality of opinion, he said with regard to the war in Ukraine. "We can and must clearly state that Russia is the aggressor that has broken international law."
