As the EU-U.S. trade dispute simmers, a new front has opened with Germany’s latest digital tax proposal—promoted by newly appointed Minister of State Wolfram Weimer—raising concerns of further confrontation across the Atlantic.
Weimer, who assumed the role of Minister of State to the Federal Chancellor and Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media in May 2025, now finds himself at the center of international economic policy. Traditionally an office known for monument preservation, his ministry has taken a sharp turn toward trade politics—becoming a platform for Germany’s digital taxation agenda.
He presents the controversial tax as a matter of fairness and societal responsibility. Through what he calls “platform solidarity,” Weimer seeks to challenge what he describes as “monopoly-like structures” of tech giants, demanding they contribute to media plurality and infrastructure independence.
“Germany must free itself from its dependence on American infrastructure—and finally ensure a fair contribution to media diversity,” Weimer argues.
With the U.S. tariffs on the EU on hold and Washington playing hardball, Europe should be more responsible regarding politically motivated economic attacks on the U.S., critics say.
