German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared he will not abandon efforts to collaborate with US President Donald Trump, even after a public dispute over the war in Iran. In an interview with public broadcaster ARD set to air on Sunday night, Merz stated, "I am not giving up on working on the transatlantic relationship. Nor am I giving up on working with Donald Trump."
Downplaying Tensions
Merz sought to minimize any friction with Trump, suggesting that the abrupt announcement of a US withdrawal of 5,000 troops from German bases should not be viewed as retaliation. "It may be being exaggerated a bit, but it's not new," Merz told talkshow host Caren Miosga. He argued that the decision had "no connection" with recent disagreements between the leaders.
Criticism of US-Iran Policy
The rift between Merz and Trump escalated after Merz remarked on April 27 that Iran was "humiliating" Washington at the negotiating table. This prompted a series of angry responses from the US, including Trump's comments that Merz was doing a "terrible" job as chancellor. Despite this, Merz emphasized that he shares Trump's goal of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, even if he disagrees with the US approach to the conflict. "We have a different view of this war. That's no secret," Merz said. "I'm not the only one who feels that way."
US Troop Withdrawal and Missile Deployment
Merz appeared to confirm that a planned deployment of US long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles to Germany, announced by former President Joe Biden, has been called off, at least for now. He cited depleted US arsenals due to the wars in Iran and Ukraine as the reason. "The Americans themselves don't have enough at the moment," he said. "Objectively speaking, there is hardly any possibility from the US of relinquishing weapons systems of this kind." However, Merz stressed that the "train has not departed" for future cooperation, and that European NATO powers could continue deterring Russia without those specific missiles or US forces.
Broader European Relations
Trump's criticism has not been limited to Merz; he has also ridiculed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and complained about Italy and Spain. Nevertheless, Merz expressed confidence in the transatlantic partnership, stating that Trump respects his right to hold differing views, though perhaps "a little less for the moment." He concluded, "That does not alter the fact that I remain convinced that the Americans are important partners for us – our most important partners in the North Atlantic alliance."
