Chancellor Merz and President Trump's First Call: Aiming for Rapid Resolution of Trade Disputes and Ending Ukraine's Conflict
Trade negotiation initiated: Merz and Trump aim for swift resolution of trade disagreement
Two days into his tenure, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz took a call with US President Donald Trump. In a united stance, they both stressed the need for swift resolution of trade disputes and an immediate end to the bloody conflict in Ukraine.
Following their discussion, government spokesman Stefan Kornelius stated, "President Trump and Chancellor Merz have agreed to resolve trade disputes rapidly and collaborate closely to bring an end to the war in Ukraine."
In his congratulatory message to the Chancellor, President Trump acknowledged the longstanding friendship between Germany and the United States, which dates back to the end of World War II, and reiterated that they remain indispensable allies.
In the face of mounting trade tension, the EU could impose massive counter-tariffs on US goods, citing the 25% tariffs that the US imposed on EU aluminum, steel, and cars, along with a proposed 10% tariff on all EU imports starting mid-March 2025. Potentially targeted US exports include aerospace products like Boeing, agri-food items, and industrial goods, with a potential value of €95 billion[1].
Highlighting the gravity of this looming trade war, Merz emphasized his desire to prevent it. Additionally, he proposed expanding mutual recognition of technological standards[1].
In the event of a meeting with Trump before the G7 summit in Canada and the NATO summit, Merz would coordinate closely with French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk[2].
As negotiations continue, the Chancellor echoed Trump's demand for an abrupt end to the violence in Ukraine, urging Russia to agree to a ceasefire and pave the way for negotiations. Should Germany and its partners succeed in forging lasting peace, they have President Trump's backing[2].
In the face of the striking political landscape, this phone call marks a significant test for Chancellor Merz as he navigates complex trade issues and global conflicts hand in hand with powerful allies[3].
- Friedrich Merz
- Donald Trump
- Ukraine Conflict
- Tariffs
[1] https://www.ntv.de/politik/importzollfrage-us-gibt-teuerste-karte-aus,als/AFP/rts[2] https://www.ntv.de/politik/importzollfrage-us-gibt-teuerste-karte-aus,als/AFP/rts[3] https://www.ntv.de/politik/importzollfrage-us-gibt-teuerste-karte-aus,als/AFP/rts
- Chancellor Merz and President Trump have agreed to work towards the swift resolution of trade disputes, particularly those involving tariffs, as a means to foster a stronger economic and monetary union.
- In response to the trade tensions, the EU is contemplating imposing counter-tariffs on US goods, including exports such as Boeing, agri-food items, and industrial goods, which could amount to €95 billion.
- Acknowledging the gravity of the potential trade war, Chancellor Merz has emphasized his desire to prevent it and proposed expanding mutual recognition of technological standards as a solution.
- In the context of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, both leaders agreed on the need for an immediate end to the violence, and Chancellor Merz has encouraged Russia to agree to a ceasefire to pave the way for negotiations.
