German Union’s Chairman Friedrich Merz, who won the recent election, is reportedly planning to meet with US President Donald Trump at an early date, in an effort to prevent further transatlantic tensions, such as the recent dispute with Ukraine. According to Jens Spahn and Johann Wadephul, Merz’s deputy faction leaders, Germany and Europe are unprepared for Trump’s second term and a meeting with the new German Chancellor could take place before the NATO summit in the summer. Spahn stated to the “Tagesspiegel” that it is crucial to show a presence in Washington, as the US President’s actions were predictable. Wadephul added that Merz will likely travel to the US soon, with the hope of having long-term higher defense spending in hand, which could help ease the strained relations, even if it is known that it is difficult for Europeans to make an impact in Washington. A constitutional amendment to reform the debt brake or a new special fund for the Bundeswehr, which is currently being discussed, should be decided by the end of the month if it is to take place in the old Bundestag.
The German Union Leader’s Desperate Bid to Save the Transatlantic Alliance
