Phone Call Between Merz and Trump: Soothing Tensions on Ukraine and Trade
Initial telephone conversation: Trump and Merz aim for prompt resolution of trade disagreements
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link
In a surprisingly amicable conversation, new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump discussed easing the Ukraine conflict and resolving trade disputes. The call, reportedly cordial and business-like, took place just two days after the election and inauguration of Chancellor Merz.
Politics Transatlantic Ties: Prospects and Peeves
The duo, with limited prior acquaintance, agreed on collaborating closely to end the Russian incursion in Ukraine. Chancellor Merz reiterated Trump's demand for a swift termination of violence in the region. It's crucial for Russia to honor a ceasefire, thereby paving the way for negotiations, revealed government spokesman, Stefan Kornelius. Trump pledged his backing for German-led initiatives toward lasting peace, in partnership with France, Britain, Poland, and other EU states.
Trade Barbs Recede
The trade conflict between the US and the EU was also a topic of discussion. Merz and Trump agreed to find quick solutions to resolve the disputes, though a resolution remains elusive[5][7]. Just before the call, the EU Commission proposed tariffs on US exports worth up to 95 billion euros in case dialogue with Washington fails to produce results[5].
If the US government doesn't forego its tariffs by July, Trump has threatened to impose extensive new ones[5][9]. Merz criticized the US stance on the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution's classification of the AfD, calling for a mutually beneficial EU-US agreement on abolishing tariffs and expanding mutual recognition of technological standards[5][8].
Aopes to Each Other
During the conversation, Merz extended an invitation to Trump to visit Germany, highlighting the latter's German roots and the hometown of Trump's ancestors: Kallstadt, in Rhineland-Palatinate[5][7]. Trump, in turn, invited Merz to Washington[5][7]. Despite past contentions, both leaders expressed a desire for regular communication and mutual visits, though specific dates were omitted[5][7].
Early Start ntv Early Start: Merz could potentially garner Trump's respect in the ongoing diplomatic discourse. Trump has so far visited Germany only for the 2017 G20 summit. With the G7 and NATO summits scheduled for June, Merz aspires to meet Trump before these events[5][7].
- Friedrich Merz
- Donald Trump
- Ukraine Conflict
- Tariffs
- Trade Disputes: The escalating trade rift between the US and EU has stemmed primarily from Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum imports[5][7]. Trump's 90-day deadline for EU proposals to avoid additional tariffs is approaching[5].
- Transatlantic Relations: Although Trump's policies have tested the resilience of transatlantic partnerships, Merz has stressed the importance of Germany-US cooperation, emphasizing the long-standing alliance between their nations[2][4].
- Chancellor Merz expressed his willingness to find quick solutions to resolve the trade disputes between the US and the EU, as discussed in the phone call with President Trump.
- During the conversation, Merz also confirmed his support for the European-led initiatives toward lasting peace in Ukraine, as addressed in the phone call with Trump.
- In a surprising move, Merz extended an invitation to Trump to visit Germany, highlighting the latter's German roots and the hometown of Trump's ancestors, Kallstadt, in Rhineland-Palatinate.
- Trump's demand for a swift termination of violence in the Ukraine region was reiterated by Chancellor Merz during the conversation with President Trump.
