In the Oval Office, a subdued Trump lavished praise on Merz
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The Oval Office left Chancellor Friedrich Merz in awe. Trump's unpredictable meetings never disappoint. This first encounter could mark the start of an unexpected friendship, but only time will tell.
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Washington DC - In an unexpectedly warm welcome, US President Donald Trump greeted German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his inaugural visit to the White House. At a press conference in his office, the Oval Office, Trump referred to the CDU politician as a "respected" and "solid" individual, noting their visit marked the start of a promising relationship with Germany. Despite previous criticism, he even praised Germany's progress in the defense sector. Allegations from high-ranking US officials about Germany restricting freedom of expression and excluding parties like the AfD were conveniently ignored. Merz, well-prepared to respond, was ready to set the record straight.
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A special gift
During the Oval Office meeting, questions were mostly directed at Trump, while Merz remained relaxed beside him, careful not to intrude. "We share so much common ground in our history. We owe the Americans a great debt, one we will never forget," Merz said, subtly addressing Trump's heritage.
He also brought along a gift – a golden-framed and substantial reproduction of Trump's grandfather Friedrich's birth certificate from 1869 Kallstadt in the Palatinate, later emigrating to the USA. The keepsake was presented to Trump at the outset, who replied, "That's fantastic. We will proudly display it."
A gracious host
Armed with praise and supportive behind-the-scenes compliments, Trump was the consummate host during the encounter. He also made a point to avoid potentially controversial topics. On crucial matters like Ukraine and defense spending, he struck conciliatory tones, acknowledging Merz's recent election victory and deeming him a remarkable ambassador for Germany.
The sometimes headstrong US President, known for his derisive comments about his counterparts, presented himself as remarkably composed in Merz's presence. Looking at Russian President Vladimir Putin, he said, "I don't have any friends," before gesturing towards Merz and adding, "But Merz, he's the exception."
Merz's White House baptism
With Trump's use of confrontational tactics during meetings with guests in the Oval Office in recent months, Merz's visit served as a test. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faced a deep humiliation during his White House visit in late February, with the encounter still causing controversy today. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was subjected to videos reinforcing Trump's accusations against white farmers during his time in the Oval Office. Merz, however, came with a more modest agenda: to establish a connection, better understand the US stance, and ultimately carve out a leadership role in Europe.
So far, French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have been Trump's main European counterparts. Now, Merz aims to take the helm. His direct line to key US decision-makers would be the ultimate prize.
Merz: Trump accepts German invitation
According to Merz, Trump has agreed to reciprocate the visit, with the details still being worked out. Merz was pleased with Trump's reaction to his gift, stating, "It appears to have touched him deeply. He couldn't stop looking at it."
Trump's grandfather, also named Friedrich, hailed from Kallstadt in the Palatinate before emigrating to the USA in 1885. He worked various jobs, becoming an American citizen in 1892 and changing his name to Frederick. Local authorities denied him the right to return to Germany due to issues with his initial departure – an ironic twist considering Trump's stance on strict immigration policies.
Steering clear of controversy
Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were also in attendance during the Oval Office press conference, those government members who had previously criticized Germany for limiting freedom of speech and excluding parties such as the AfD. Merz addressed the criticism, stating that it was to be considered meddling in German affairs. The sensitive topic remained unaddressed during the meeting.
Merz arrived at the White House without an interpreter, demonstrating confidence. However, he sought advice from several leaders who had already met with Trump, including Zelensky, Ramaphosa, Meloni, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
Defining the Visit's Main Topics
Focused on ending the war in Ukraine, Merz positioned himself as an influential figure among Europeans seeking peace. During the meeting, Trump supported Merz's stance, expressing a shared desire to see an end to the fighting. Trump, however, stopped short of committing to new sanctions against Russia, leaving the possibility open for future actions.
Trump has yet to reveal his stance on a related bill from Congress, with impatience growing. In late June, the heads of state and government of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will meet in The Hague to discuss, among other things, defense spending. Trump demanded that alliance partners increase their military investment to five percent of their GDP, but Merz has proposed a compromise formula: 3.5 percent for military spending and 1.5 percent for infrastructure pertinent to defense. Trump was noncommittal on the compromise during the meeting with Merz.
- The exchange between Trump and Merz in the Oval Office marked a significant moment, as they addressed war-and-conflicts, specifically the war in Ukraine, and both expressed a shared desire to end the fighting.
- A special topic covered during the meeting was policy-and-legislation, with Trump yet to reveal his stance on a related bill from Congress regarding defense spending. The issue will likely be discussed at an upcoming NATO summit, with Trump advocating for increased military investment from alliance partners, while Merz proposed a compromise formula. Furthermore, discussions surrounding politics and general-news, such as freedom of speech and the exclusion of certain parties, were handled delicately during the meeting.
