Is AfD’s Weidel embarrassed by Trump?

 Is AfD’s Weidel embarrassed by Trump?

In January 2026, Alice Weidel, co-leader of Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD), has expressed significant frustration and criticism toward U.S. President Donald Trump, signaling a rare rupture in their previously aligned political interests.

 

Key developments regarding Weidel's stance on Trump include:

Foreign Policy Criticism: During a press conference on January 13, 2026, Weidel accused Trump of breaking a "fundamental campaign promise" by interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, specifically citing his administration's actions in Venezuela and Greenland.

Motivations for Resource Control: Weidel stated that the U.S. government's primary objective in these regions is to secure natural resources, expressing concern that such interventionism could disrupt peace negotiations in Ukraine.

Comparison to Putin: Weidel has reportedly compared Trump's recent actions and rhetoric to those of Vladimir Putin, a shift from her party's historical tendency to defend both leaders.

Reaction from U.S. Republicans: Her comments have led to a backlash from "Republicans Overseas Germany," who expressed surprise at her "about-face" and "openly turned against" her for criticizing Trump's leadership.

Strategic Distance: Analysts suggest this criticism may be a calculated effort to distance the AfD from Trump as public sentiment in Germany turns increasingly against his "economic warfare" and foreign interventionism.

While the AfD has historically sought closer ties with Trump and the MAGA movement, Weidel’s current public stance is characterized by a "loosening of the embrace" due to what she views as a betrayal of non-interventionist principles.