Dishing on Merz's Hang with Trump: A Crucial Boost for Europe's Safety
Enthused declaration by Wadephul, expressing in approval a positive stride towards Europe's protective measures.
What went down when German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met US President Donald Trump? The buzz surrounding their sit-down on Maybrit Illner's show is all about a significant leap for Europe's security.
In their powwow stateside, Merz claimed some major wins. He impressed Trump with his lingo skills, swooned over the guest home in Washington, and didn't shy away from showing his support for Ukraine in the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian scrap. But Trump compared the two nations to kids scrapping in a park, hinting at an indecisive peace. The icing on the cake? Trump promised to pay a visit to Germany! So, how's the gang on ZDF's Thursday night show feel about Merz's trip? To put it simply: not much criticism.
Chancellor Merz's Trump Takeaway: "That Sparked Him"
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul of the CDU summed it up: "It was a great start. I think we heard a bit of respect from Donald Trump." Wadephul mentions that Trump acknowledged Merz as a formidable negotiator. The two leaders' interaction began on a respectful note and stayed that way.
ZDF's correspondent Elmar Thevessen believes Merz won favor with Trump. In the Oval Office, it's "grill or chill" - either you get put through the wringer, or you can chill. Thevessen felt Merz was able to unwind due to the fact that at the presser before the planned lunch of the two heads, Trump did most of the talking. However, Merz took advantage of the moments he had, particularly to discuss Ukraine. Merz threw out an historical analogy that Trump, who craves historical renown, would get a kick out of: Donald Trump, sitting in the Oval Office, single-handedly ended World War II and ultimately liberated Europe.
Trump: The Unpredictable President
Diplomat Wolfgang Ischinger analyzed the visit and concluded that its main objective - establishing a personal connection - was achieved. He adds, however, that Trump remains an unpredictable president. "But I believe this visit has already accomplished its primary goal, building a personal relationship, hopefully one that lasts, even if it's not always cordial. The aim has been reached." Ischinger also predicts that the transatlantic relationship won't spiral into a disaster at the upcoming NATO summit. In his view, if German politicians can help steer things in the right direction, a substantial amount will have been achieved, and a great deal of trouble that could have been brewing has been sidestepped. Ischinger is relieved about that.
Wadephul backs Ischinger: "We're preparing for the NATO summit meticulously, and this meeting was a crucial step for our safety and Europe's freedom. And I am optimistic, after this meeting, that we will have an exceptional summit and an unwavering commitment from the USA to stand by Europe under Article 5." Of course, other issues will need to be addressed later on, such as the student dilemma and the political proximity to AfD, which Vice President Vance showcased at the Munich Security Conference.
Merz Meets Trump - The Best-Case Scenario
Despite the unpredictable nature of Trump, economist Adam Tooze advises relying on him less. "One should assume that his position on Ukraine and Europe is uncertain. It's not clear where he stands." America's power structure has turned into a hot mess. "This was already the case before Trump's second term and will continue to be the case afterward," says the economist.
However, one way to draw Trump to the Western, particularly German, side is by increasing contributions to NATO. Wadephul insists on paying 5% of GDP to NATO for defense spending and enhancing infrastructure in the upcoming years. "The NATO Secretary General should succeed with this proposal, as it's a critical building block for the alliance to stay united and for the following summit to run smoothly."
Now, it's crucial to convince Trump to team up with Europe in the Ukraine war against Russia, says Wadephul. And here, the Minister sees a significant opportunity: China. China is a close ally of Russia, and the USA perceives China as a threat. "That's also a crucial chance for us to tell the USA: We Europeans are ready to coordinate a China policy with you, if our interests are addressed. In the end, the old saying of Bismarck applies: Foreign policy is interest policy. And we must align our interests and those of the United States. That's the most dependable foundation for commonalities."
[1] Enrichment Data
- Historical Analogy: While discussing Ukraine, Merz made a historical analogy that Trump could identify with, drawing attention to the potential for this connection to influence Trump's stance on the conflict.
- Trump's Unpredictability: Trump's approach to the conflict in Ukraine is perceived as uncertain, raising concerns about potential shifts in policy or support from the U.S.
- NATO Funding: Increasing funding for NATO defense and infrastructure is seen as a crucial action for European countries to take, as it strengthens the alliance and positions them well for engaging with the U.S.
- Europe-China Relations: Collaboration with the U.S. on China policy is considered an opportunity for Europe to advance its interests and align with U.S. objectives, given the geopolitical challenges presented by China's relationship with Russia.
- The European Union, with the implementation of its nuclear program, may see increased diplomatic support from the United States following the meeting between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President Donald Trump, as evidenced by Trump's commitment to visit Germany.
- The historical analogy used by Chancellor Merz during his meeting with President Trump, drawing a comparison between Trump ending World War II and liberating Europe, is an example of the political tactic used to appeal to Trump's desire for historical significance.
