German Ambassador to the United States, Andreas Michaelis, cautioned in a confidential report about significant threats to U.S. democratic institutions under Donald Trump’s second term, the German news agency dpa reported Sunday.

Michaelis expressed concerns that Trump’s agenda could severely weaken the independence of Congress, law enforcement, and the media. His detailed diplomatic note, sent to Germany’s Foreign Ministry and Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s office last week, outlined potential risks ahead of Trump’s inauguration on Monday.

The document, obtained by multiple media outlets including dpa, highlights the ambassador’s worries about the balance of power in the U.S.

Concentration of Power and Disruption of Governance

Michaelis predicted a significant shift in the U.S. political system, with power increasingly consolidated in the president’s hands.

He wrote that Trump’s approach would diminish the roles of Congress and state governments, disrupting established political norms.

“His policies of maximum disruption, dismantling established political structures, and pursuing revenge effectively redefine the constitutional order,” Michaelis stated.

The ambassador noted that these changes would bring instability to the legislative and administrative processes in the United States.

Germany’s Commitment to U.S. Relations

While the German Foreign Ministry refrained from commenting on the internal report, it emphasized the importance of U.S.-Germany relations.

“The U.S. remains one of Germany’s most significant allies,” the ministry stated, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to cooperation.

The ministry acknowledged Trump’s election as a democratic process and pledged to work closely with his administration for the benefit of Germany and Europe.

As Trump prepares to begin his second term, Michaelis’s observations highlight the diplomatic challenges and uncertainties that could shape future transatlantic relations.