do you think that I believe that you will protect us? I said, yes. He said, I no longer believe that you will protect us. Your actions over recent years have made clear that to you detente is more important than anything else. I do not believe that any American president will risk nuclear war for Berlin; the only thing that is saving us is that the Soviets cannot be sure of this.72
The speaker expresses a deep skepticism about the protective measures promised by the American government, particularly in the context of Cold War tensions. They articulate a feeling of betrayal, suggesting that diplomatic efforts, or detente, have taken precedence over direct commitments to safeguard allies like Berlin. With recent actions indicating a shift in priorities, the speaker loses faith in the U.S. commitment to their defense.
This loss of belief is underscored by the speaker’s perception that no American president would risk nuclear conflict for the sake of Berlin. Ironically, it is their uncertainty of U.S. intentions that provides a semblance of protection from the Soviets, highlighting the precarious balance of power during this era.
