Friedrich Merz, Germany's Chancellor, met with US President Donald Trump to discuss important topics including defense spending, tariffs, and the situation in Ukraine. Preparations for the meeting were solid, according to a prior statement by Merz. Senior research fellow Rachel Tausenfreund noted that Merz's well-crafted responses avoided specifics on trade negotiations, making the meeting favorable. Trump discussed the tragic situation in Ukraine and blamed Biden for the invasion’s origins, while expressing concern over casualties. Merz also advocated for US-Germany collaboration in addressing the ongoing conflict and emphasized the countries’ solid bilateral relations and NATO commitment.
Tausenfreund says Merz's answers were "well crafted" and that "specifics over the tough trade negotiations were avoided."
Trump remarked the White House was in good shape, stating their administration had "fixed it up, and having it tippy toppy" like in Germany.
Trump stated he thinks Putin wants "the whole thing," referring to all of Ukraine, and blamed Biden for the invasion's start.
Merz suggested Germany and the US should collaborate in ending the war, indicating strong commitment to NATO and enhancing bilateral cooperation.
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