BERLIN — The German ambassador to the United States has conveyed concerns in a recent report regarding the potential impact of Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the presidency on democratic standards in the U.S. According to the German news agency dpa, Ambassador Andreas Michaelis expressed that he predicts Trump’s second term could significantly weaken the system of checks and balances within American democracy.

In his confidential assessment sent to the German Foreign Ministry and Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s office, Michaelis articulated fears that Trump’s policies might undermine the independence of the legislative branch, law enforcement, and the media.

Released just prior to Trump’s inauguration, this report has been disclosed to various media organizations, as reported by dpa. Michaelis emphasized that he foresees Trump’s initiatives leading to a significant centralization of authority in the presidency, thereby diminishing the role and power of Congress and state governments.

He characterized Trump’s approach as one of “maximum disruption,” indicating that it threatens to dismantle established political norms and government structures. Michaelis stated that Trump’s agenda could lead to a redefinition of the constitutional framework in place.

The German Foreign Ministry refrained from commenting on internal documents, analyses, or reports from its embassies as a general rule. Nevertheless, it acknowledged the significance of the United States as one of Germany’s principal allies. In its response, the ministry noted, “The Americans elected President Trump through a democratic process. We will certainly collaborate closely with the new U.S. administration to further the interests of Germany and Europe.”