Former US President Donald Trump has launched a blistering verbal assault on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, branding her as Germany's "most hated" politician in a provocative statement that threatens to further strain transatlantic relations.
Trump's Explosive Comments
The Republican firebrand made the incendiary remarks during a private meeting with German opposition leader Friedrich Merz, where he reportedly claimed von der Leyen had become deeply unpopular in her home country. "She's the most hated person in Germany," Trump was quoted as saying, though he provided no evidence to support this assertion.
Political Context
The attack comes at a sensitive time for EU-US relations, with critical European Parliament elections looming and ongoing debates about Europe's strategic autonomy. Von der Leyen, a former German defence minister, has been a prominent figure in EU policymaking during turbulent times including the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
German Political Reaction
Merz, leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union, appeared to distance himself from Trump's comments, though the meeting itself signals potential alignment between European conservatives and Trump's political movement. Political analysts suggest this could foreshadow shifting alliances should Trump return to the White House after November's US election.
Historical Tensions
Trump has frequently clashed with EU leadership during and after his presidency, particularly over trade policies, climate commitments and defence spending. His latest remarks continue this pattern of confrontation with Brussels institutions and their representatives.
The European Commission declined to comment on what it called "personal opinions" when approached about Trump's statements.
