WASHINGTON (CP) – President Donald Trump hosted German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for their first face-to-face meeting Thursday, discussing trade cooperation, European security, and maintaining strong transatlantic partnerships during a cordial Oval Office visit that strengthened USA-German diplomatic relations.
Trump praised Merz as “a very good man to deal with” and expressed optimism about reaching a favorable trade agreement with the European Union while confirming that the 40,000 American troops stationed in Germany would remain. The German Chancellor brought a meaningful gift for the President – an original copy of Trump’s grandfather Friedrich Trump’s birth certificate in both German and English. Merz thanked Trump for American leadership and acknowledged the historic liberation of Germany from Nazi rule, emphasizing the deep gratitude Germans feel toward American sacrifices for freedom.
The leaders found common ground on defense spending priorities, with Merz supporting Trump’s call for NATO allies to increase military contributions. Germany has committed hundreds of billions of dollars to military modernization, addressing longstanding USA concerns about burden-sharing within the alliance. Merz reinforced his country’s commitment to strengthening European security capabilities while maintaining the vital transatlantic partnership that has ensured peace and prosperity for decades.
Both leaders agreed on the importance of ending the conflict in Ukraine, though they acknowledged the complexity of achieving lasting peace. Trump emphasized his commitment to diplomatic solutions while maintaining pressure on all parties to pursue negotiations. Merz expressed appreciation for Trump’s unique position to broker peace and stressed Germany’s support for American leadership in resolving international crises. The Chancellor noted that Friday marks the 81st anniversary of D-Day, highlighting how American courage and sacrifice have repeatedly secured freedom for democratic nations.
The productive meeting demonstrated the enduring strength of USA-German cooperation across multiple administrations and political differences. Trade discussions revealed mutual interest in expanding economic partnerships while addressing legitimate concerns about fair competition. Both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to democratic values, free markets, and collective security arrangements that have maintained stability since World War II. The warm reception Merz received reflects America’s continued leadership role in building coalitions among democratic allies facing common challenges from authoritarian regimes.