German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the era of unconditional friendship with the United States has ended, according to reports from Tagesspiegel and Bloomberg. Speaking at a Christian Democratic party event in Berlin on September 17, Merz attributed the shift in the transatlantic alliance to changing political attitudes in Washington.
Transatlantic Alliance Faces Shift Under Merz
The transatlantic alliance is experiencing changes driven by shifting political assessments in Washington, according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
“Era persahabatan transatlantik tanpa syarat ini mungkin telah berakhir untuk masa mendatang,” Merz said, as reported by Tagesspiegel, noting that the political transformation across the Atlantic was previously unimaginable.
Trade Disputes and Friction Over Iran Policy
Relations between Germany and the United States deteriorated following bilateral trade disputes and public disagreements regarding military conflicts. In April, Merz criticized the handling of negotiations concerning the US-Iran conflict, stating that American negotiators seeking a resolution were being “dipermalukan” (humiliated).
That commentary provoked a strong reaction from US President Donald Trump. According to reports, Trump responded to the critique by announcing the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 US troops stationed in Germany.
Domestic Political Fallout in Germany
Tensions between the two leaders escalated further when Chancellor Merz canceled a scheduled phone call with President Trump. The cancellation occurred after Trump voiced support for a right-wing party that subsequently achieved strong results in German state elections.
The electoral gains by the right-wing faction have disrupted the traditional political order in Germany, fueling domestic pressure and leading to calls for Merz to step down from his position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Friedrich Merz declare the end of unconditional friendship with the US?
According to Bloomberg and Tagesspiegel, Merz pointed to shifting political attitudes and policy assessments in Washington during a party event in Berlin on September 17.
What triggered the withdrawal of US troops from Germany?
President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of about 5,000 US troops following criticism from Merz regarding American negotiations over the US-Iran conflict.
Why did Merz cancel his phone call with President Trump?
Merz canceled the scheduled call after Trump endorsed a right-wing party that performed strongly in German state elections.
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