Germany's new open leader meets Trump: The most important thing about it

expectations of the meeting with Trump

A significant gap in Merz 'diplomatic agenda has so far been a meeting with Trump. While there were already telephone contacts between the two, the personal meeting of a handshake and the flash of lightning of the cameras is accompanied and is intended to mark the beginning of a new German-American relationship.

Germany as an economic power in Europe and Merz ’endeavor to position the country as a guide in European security-including discretion to increase military expenses and to meet Trump's demands for more defense spending at NATO member states-illustrate the importance of a successful meeting.

political tensions and criticism

The meeting could also lead to diplomatic tensions. Both Vice President JD Vance and Foreign Minister Marco Rubio recently criticized Germany's decision to classify the right -wing populist alternative for Germany (AfD) as "certainly right -wing extremist", which led to an expansion of the party's surveillance. Both commented on X about their outrage about this classification, with Rubio explained: "This is not a democracy - it is tyranny in secret."

The reaction of Germany

The Federal Foreign Office explained to X on X that the decision was democratic and resulting from a thorough and independent examination in order to protect the constitution and the rule of law. Merz rejected the statements and said: "Germany was freed from the United States by the tyranny; Germany is today stable, liberal and democratic. We do not need a tutoring lesson in democracy."

expectations of a friendly encounter

However, the general expectations indicate a friendly meeting. Wolfgang Ischinger, a former German ambassador in the USA, told CNN that Merz was "totally ready" for the meeting and that his personality and way of communication would help him win Trump. "He is direct and says what he thinks. I hope Donald Trump will appreciate that," he added.

future of transatlantic relationships

Merz has already explained that the greatest priority is to strengthen Europe as soon as possible in order to reach independence from the USA step by step. He described the attitude of the Trump administration as indifferent to the fate of Europe. In the days after the election, Merz had expressed some critical comments on US politics.

At a recent business summit, Merz revealed that he had invited Trump to Germany, with a planned visit to the rural city of Bad Dürkheim, which is the home of Trump's paternal grandfather.

US President Trump's priority setting

A positive work relationship will probably be the main goal of Germany at the meeting in the White House. Merz ’earlier roles and experiences could play a crucial role. As a former chairman of the “Atlantic Bridge” think tank, he is a passionate supporter of the transatlantic relationship in Germany.

The concern for NATO and defense spending

The willingness of Merz and his government to implement Trump's demand for many years after an increase in defense expenditure to 5 % of GDP shows that Germany is willing to face the geopolitical challenges.

FAZIT

The developments and talks before the meeting with Trump clarify that Merz pursues a pragmatic approach. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to create a base of trust with Trump and maintain transatlantic relationships, while Europe is also strengthening its own position in international events.