Berlin should use 'doughnut strategy' with Trump: German official

Germany needs to take seriously the prospect of a second term for Donald Trump in the White House, the trans-Atlantic coordinator for the German government said on Wednesday, after Trump secured another commanding victory in a Republican primary contest, reported dpa.

Michael Link said Berlin must pursue the "doughnut strategy" to mitigate the damage Trump could cause to the US-German relationship should he win the general election in November.

"In this case, we have to push the so-called 'doughnut' strategy. That means we rely on contacts around him - and with possible internal veto players," Link told dpa.

Cultivating ties with officials at various levels of the US government, and within Trump's inner circle, would serve "like a huge buffer around Trump," said Link, a member of parliament with the business friendly Free Democrats (FDP).

The best way to achieve this is to build on common interests, for example in economic relations and trade, Link said.

"There are enough players in the United States, such as entrepreneurs and governors, who don't want Trump to harm them by starting a trade war with the EU, for example."

Germany and Europe must use the time until the general election on November 5 to strengthen their own competitiveness, Link continued.

"Europe must be a strong partner that is taken seriously - this applies to the economy, but also to fair burden-sharing in NATO."

Trump's last remaining rival in the Republican race, former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, will have a hard time gaining momentum after Tuesday's loss in New Hampshire, Link said.

"But if she holds on until the primary in her home state of South Carolina, surprises are not likely, but still possible."