China Wants Germany in Its Corner. It’s Not That Easy.

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by David Pierson

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

China's efforts to court U.S. allies, particularly Germany, are facing significant hurdles due to deeper-seated grievances in Europe toward Beijing. While the article suggests that China is attempting to position itself as an alternative to American influence, German leader Angela Merkel's comments indicate that European concerns about Chinese policies and practices may run more profound than mere irritation over former U.S. President Trump's approach. The piece highlights how Europe's issues with China extend beyond trade disputes or political rhetoric, touching on human rights concerns, intellectual property violations, and even domestic governance issues. These factors complicate China's strategy to build stronger ties with European nations, which it sees as crucial in countering American dominance globally. This situation matters because it underscores the delicate balancing act European countries like Germany face in maintaining relationships with both the U.S. and China. As tensions between these global powers rise, Europe's strategic choices could have far-reaching implications for international stability and economic dynamics. The article also points to a potential shift in alliances and influence, where economic incentives from China might not be enough to sway European nations away from their traditional ties to the West. Ultimately, the story provides insight into the complexities of global geopolitics, where economic interests, political values, and historical relationships intertwine. For readers interested in international relations, this highlights how dependencies on major powers can create challenging dilemmas for smaller nations striving to protect their interests in a competitive world order.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/26/2026