Germany’s Merz lets Trump do the talking and survives Oval Office meeting

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz avoided the public humiliation that U.S. President Donald Trump often inflicts on leaders by avoiding direct confrontation during a 40-minute Oval Office meeting, instead focusing on praising Trump. Despite his efforts to stay in the background, Merz acknowledged Germany's debt to the United States and highlighted the delicate discussions they hoped to steer on transatlantic trade, security architecture, NATO, and support for Ukraine—risks inherent in engaging such a volatile leader.