Chats on Merz's Chat with Trump: Wadephul: "A Step Forward for Europe's Security"
"Wadephul commends advancement in European security efforts"
Let's dish on the lowdown from Merz's hang with Trump, as discussed on Maybrit Illner's show. The general consensus? It's a significant stride for Europe's security.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made a splash during his powwow with US President Donald Trump in Washington. He held his own, impressing Trump with his command of English, praising his digs, comp'ing him when needed, and bluntly stating Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine in the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian brawl. Trump, however, compared Russia and Ukraine to squabbling kids in the schoolyard, hinting peace in Ukraine is still a pipe dream. The estimated win for Merz? Trump's promise to visit Germany.
Politics Chancellor Merz on Trump Meeting: "I Managed to Connect With Him"
Case in point, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul from the CDU tosses out, "That was a solid start. I reckon we heard a smidgen of respect from Donald Trump." He's referring to Trump's praise of Merz as a rugged negotiator. Trump respects Merz, Wadephul declares. "And that's crucial for Germany, that our top dog is respected and heard stated loud and clear. Merz managed to deliver his message, particularly on Ukraine. What matters now is that the USA engages with us on Ukraine's side. Merz's debut garnered positive vibes." The connection between Trump and Merz began on friendly terms, and it's been a straightforward relationship since.
ZDF correspondent Elmar Theveßen, present at the meet, shares the feeling that Merz made a good impression on Trump. "In the Oval Office, it's often 'grill or chill' - either you get grilled or you can kick back. And we sensed that Merz was able to unwind a bit." This was because, before the scheduled lunch of the two leaders, it was mostly Donald Trump who held court. However, Merz capitalized on the opportunities he had, especially on the topic of Ukraine. "He spoke about how, in this Oval Office, an American president decided to end World War II and ultimately liberate Europe." Merz drew a historical parallel that Trump, who yearns for historical significance, would appreciate.
Politics "Let Them Squabble a Bit" - Trump's Childish Comparison Reveals the Core Issue
The main takeaway from the meet? Merz got the job done, analyzes economist Adam Tooze from Columbia University. Neither the "Washington Post" nor the "New York Times" thought it merited a headline. Their focus remained on the current beef between Trump and Elon Musk.
Translation:
Trump will continue to be an unpredictable president, diplomat Wolfgang Ischinger calls it. "But I believe this meeting has already achieved its main purpose, establishing a personal connection, hopefully a resilient one, even if it's not always friendly. That goal has already been met." Furthermore, Ischinger concludes the transatlantic relationship hasn't collapsed yet. "I think we can already say: The NATO summit, which will take place in around three weeks, won't end in a foreseeable disaster or transatlantic catastrophe, but rather in a confirmation of the alliance's unity, despite Trump. And if German politicians can help bring this about, much will have been achieved, and much that could have turned out badly will have been avoided. I am truly relieved about that."
Wadephul chimes in: "We're gearing up for the NATO summit, and this meeting was a pivotal step for our safety and freedom in Europe. I'm incredibly optimistic about the proceedings today, and I believe we'll have an excellent summit and a clear commitment from the USA to stand by Europe according to Article 5." Of course, there are other matters to discuss, such as the student struggles or proximity to the AfD that Vice President Vance showcased at the Munich Security Conference. But that's for another day.
Politics "The distinction in this war" Merz becomes apparent in Russia criticism - Trump nods
US Backing for Europe
Nevertheless, cautions Adam Tooze, we shouldn't bank too much on Trump. "One should assume that his position on Ukraine and Europe is undecided. It's not crystal clear where he stands." America as an entity has become shockingly unstable. "That's been the case since before Trump's second term and will remain so afterwards,"says the economist.
Yet, we can pull Trump towards the western, especially the German side, by pouring more money into NATO, argues Wadephul. We must shell out five percent of GDP for defense spending and improve infrastructure in the next few years, demands the foreign minister. "The NATO secretary general should succeed with this proposal, as it's a vital building block for the alliance to stay solid and for the next summit to run smoothly."
Now it's essential to persuade Trump to team up with Europe in the Ukraine war against Russia, says Wadephul. And here the minister spots an opportunity: China. The People's Republic is a close ally of Russia, and the USA perceive China as a menace. "That's also a golden chance for us to tell the USA: We Europeans are ready to align our China policy with you if our interests are considered. Ultimately, the old adage by Bismarck applies: Foreign policy is interest policy. And we must reconcile our interests and those of the United States."
Source: ntv.de
- Donald Trump
- Friedrich Merz
- Johann Wadephul
- NATO
- Attack on Ukraine
The European Union's commitment to the implementation of the EU's nuclear programme could potentially be influenced by the positive political relationship that is developing between the United States and Germany, as demonstrated by the meeting between Donald Trump and Friedrich Merz. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul suggests this alignment of interests with the US could be leveraged to secure US backing for Europe, particularly in light of the ongoing attack on Ukraine and the potential for cooperation with NATO.
