Merz shrugs off Trump clash over troops, trade
politico.eu • • world
Key Points:
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sought to ease tensions with President Donald Trump, emphasizing their ongoing communication despite recent disputes over U.S. military actions in Iran and trade tariffs.
- Trump’s threats to withdraw U.S. troops from Germany and impose higher auto tariffs have heightened uncertainty, impacting Germany’s economy and long-awaited missile deployment plans.
- Merz acknowledged his blunt communication style has caused friction but defended it as necessary candor expected by voters, stating he will not change his approach.
- The U.S. has not renewed a 2024 commitment to supply long-range Tomahawk missiles to Germany under Trump, raising concerns about European deterrence against Russia, though Merz suggested logistical challenges may be a factor.
- On trade, Merz urged the EU to finalize stalled negotiations with the U.S. to avoid tariffs, while maintaining a hopeful tone about transatlantic cooperation and even joked about Germany’s chances in the upcoming men’s World Cup.
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