The German government, however, has struggled to establish contacts with Mr. Trumps team. Decision makers in Berlin have largely been left to read the tea leaves in Mr. Trumps campaign rhetoric and his recent interviews with the European press.
Instead of expressing his concerns through private diplomatic channels, Mr. Trump has publicly dismissed NATO as obsolete, threatened German carmakers with a 35 percent tariff and predicted that other nations would leave the European Union.
Ms. Merkels team has given up any pretense that Mr. Trump might become more statesman-like once he enters the Oval Office.
None of us here believe that anymore, a source in the chancellors circle of advisors told Handelsblatt. The Americans, and the world, will get the Trump they elected.
. . .
Mr. Heusgen said his initial conversations with the Trump team gave him the impression that they have little understanding of the European Union and how it operates.
Ms. Merkels cabinet is resting its hopes on retired Marine Corps general James Mattis, Mr. Trumps pick for secretary of defense, as a voice of reason within the new U.S. administration. Mr. Mattis is well connected in Europe and views NATO as an anchor of stability.