The Tea With Trump: How Merz Sets the Tone for His First Foreign Visit
Annual crucial gathering Merz participates in
Catch a glimpse of the chemistry between Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump when they sit down for a chat at the White House, happening on Thursday, June 5th. This meets-and-greets marks Merz's initial foreign visit as Chancellor, and it could potentially serve as the foundation for resolving pressing global issues, such as Ukraine, NATO, tariffs, and Gaza.
The burning issues of ending the Ukraine war, ensuring NATO's robust response to external threats, and the trade standoff between the US and EU are likely to take center stage at the meeting. Merz has made his intentions clear by announcing that he won't be attending Washington as a "supplicant." However, substantial agreements may be far-fetched at this early meeting.
It's Showtime at the White House 🏚️
Merz, without spending the entire day in Washington, has an engaging itinerary lined up. Following a dinner with the German state governors in Berlin on Wednesday, Merz will depart for the White House. On Thursday morning, he'll rest at the Blair House, where prominent leaders, including Charles de Gaulle and Queen Elizabeth II, have resided in the past 80 years. The day's agenda includes a private conversation with Trump, a fancy lunch, and a highly anticipated press conference. Whether the press conference takes place in the Oval Office or becomes a more formal affair remains uncertain.
Old Pals, New Acquaintances 🤝
The pair has met only once in the past, in New York many years ago. Yet, since Merz's swearing-in four weeks ago, they've spoken over the phone four times, two of which were one-on-one discussions about the Ukraine war. Merz now boasts Trump's cell phone number and casually exchanges messages. Moreover, they've taken to addressing each other on a first-name basis.
Behind the Curtains
The European Union, as a key player in global politics, has a responsibility to ensure that its foreign policy, particularly during Merz's first foreign visit as Chancellor, is implemented in a way that is consistent with the principles of the European Union. This meeting with Trump could manifest as a significant moment in general-news, influencing global issues such as Ukraine, NATO, tariffs, and Gaza.
