Asset Publisher

Publications

Asset Publisher

IMAGO / Wolfgang Maria Weber

Reactions and Background to the Trump Administration’s Decision to Reduce Troops in Germany

Gradual Withdrawal or New Strategy?

The United States’ decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany over the next year reflects not only President Donald Trump’s displeasure with America’s European allies, but also the continuation of a policy by the Trump Administration to hold American allies responsible for their own security. This move was substantially criticized by members of both houses of Congress, including many of Trump’s Republican allies, for being short sighted, lack of transparency (especially considering the lack of a released Global Posture Review) and demonstrating weakness. This may also be driven by an attempt to shore up Trump’s political base ahead of the 2026 midterm elections after the president’s approval rating sharply fell after the attack on Iran.

Autonomy and Alliance

Aligning Transatlantic Defense Industries for a New Strategic Landscape

"Autonomy and Alliance: Aligning Transatlantic Defense Industries for a New Strategic Landscape" examines the profound transformation underway in transatlantic security relations. As Europe moves to assume greater responsibility for its own defense amid shifting U.S. strategic priorities, the report explores how a stronger European defense industrial base can be built without undermining the indispensable role of NATO and U.S.–European cooperation.

IMAGO / ZUMA Press

U.S. Parties Choose Candidates for the Midterms

Tension in Texas

The election year is underway. In Arkansas, North Carolina, and Texas, primary voters have chosen the parties’ candidates for the November elections. For Democrats, the goal is to field contenders capable of winning back the majority in Congress. Republicans, meanwhile, aim to defend their majorities and continue advancing former President Trump’s policy agenda.

Supreme Court vs. Trump

The Tariff Ruling and Its Consequences

In February, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its long awaited ruling on President Trump’s tariff policy. In ‘Learning Resources, Inc. v. Donald J. Trump,’ the court found that the sweeping tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) exceeded the president’s authority. (Report in German)

IMAGO / Avalon.red

U.S. Perspectives One Year Into Trump’s Second Term

“Move Fast and Break Things”

Showing strength, challenging traditions, and putting America’s interests—along with his own—first: the first year of President Trump’s second term has been a whirlwind of national and international change. Nowhere is this more evident than in foreign policy, where he has profoundly reshaped the role of the United States and challenged the existing order.

KAS

The New U.S. National Security Strategy

Trump’s View of the World

The new National Security Strategy (NSS) puts the America first approach–achieving US economic, military, and technological might through foreign policy means–at its core. In Europe it has set alarm bells particularly over the overarching assumptions about Europe's “civilizational” demise and raised questions about the future of the transatlantic values-based partnership. Meanwhile, Congress adopted notably different priorities for U.S. military engagement in Europe. (Report in German)

The Inflation Reduction Act

Impacts on Cleantech, Trade and Investment

The United States have seen significant developments in key cleantech sectors following the introduction of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). With the expiration of some support instruments in 2025, a new chapter for cleantech trade and investment in the United States is about to begin in 2026. This publication, produced in collaboration with E3G, examines the IRA’s impact on investment flows, imports, and exports across major U.S. cleantech sectors.

„America First“ verändert den Welthandel

Trump’s Trade Policy and Its Impact on Transatlantic Relations

After more than a century of U.S. policy centered on free trade, the Trump administration has significantly shifted the country’s position in the global economy by renegotiating trade agreements and imposing comprehensive tariffs. The goal is to revive U.S. industrial production. Yet rising tariffs risk burdening businesses and consumers while straining relations with key allies. (Report in German)

IMAGO / MediaPunch

Local Elections, National Significance

November Elections in Several U.S. States are Decisive for Political Parties

Neither the President nor any members of Congress are up for election this year. But on November 4, important decisions will be made at the state and local levels—offering a key opportunity to gauge the political mood of the country.

Cybersecuring the Modern Bioeconomy

Policy Imperatives for the AI-Genomics Convergence

AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing are fusing into a new domain of opportunity — and risk. This paper unpacks how this convergence could expose scientific systems to cyberattacks, espionage, and data manipulation. The analysis is based on a study and event hosted by KAS USA earlier this year.