Trump and Merz: A historical meeting! New times for Germany!

Trump and Merz: A historical meeting! New times for Germany!

Washington, D.C., USA - On June 5, 2025, US President Donald Trump received the newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) in the White House. This was Merz ’first official visit to this function and formed a significant occasion to set the course for a new era in German-American relations. Trump warmly congratulated Merz on his election victory and described him as a "very respected man", whose choice is considered "great" and positive for transatlantic relationships.

The meeting took place in the Oval Office and focused on central international topics, including EU-Zölle, the continuing war in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. These discussions are particularly relevant because Merz had previously hit leading politicians in European capitals to establish a strong network that is devoted to the challenges of the present. These include Macron in France and Zelensky in Ukraine.

German-American relationships

Merz ’Visit not only marks the first personal exchange with Trump since taking office, but also the beginning of a new phase of cooperation between Germany and the USA. The Federal Chancellor has set itself the task of focusing on the economic strength of Germany as well as the commitment to European security and military adjustments.

Despite the positive expectations, there were previous tensions, in particular due to the US criticism in the classification of the alternative for Germany (AfD) as extremist. Merz defended the decision of the German Foreign Ministry as necessary for democratic protection and pointed out stability and democracy in Germany. This could be crucial for negotiations on arms issues, since Merz has committed to an increase in NATO defense spending and Trump takes up a similar attitude.

global security and challenges

The geopolitical challenges that have emerged since Russia's full invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, increase the pressure on transatlantic cooperation. A comprehensive study emphasizes that the security of Ukraine should be seen as a long -term guarantee for the security of Europe and the USA. The connections between the security policy challenges and political relationships cannot be overlooked.

As mentioned in the study, the strengthening of NATO and the EU is of crucial importance in order to counter current threats from Russia and China. Trust in transatlantic alliance, especially in view of the global shifts of power, is more important than ever. Merz seems to have recognized this challenge and wants to build a positive work relationship with Trump, which may remind you of the relationships that Trump maintained with Emmanuel Macron.