Trump Continues Criticism of Merz Over Iran and Domestic Policy

Tensions between Washington and Berlin are rising as US President Donald Trump continues to criticize German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, calling him “ineffective” and urging him to focus on domestic issues rather than commenting on US policy towards Iran.

The dispute intensified this week after Merz accused the US of showing weakness in dealing with Tehran. Trump responded on Tuesday by saying the German leader did not know what he was talking about, before escalating his criticism a day later by pointing to Germany’s struggles with energy and migration and accusing him of failing to help resolve the war in Ukraine.

“He’s doing a terrible job”, Trump said. “And he’s got a big problem with Ukraine, because they’re in that mess.”

Merz has not responded directly to the personal attacks but stressed the importance of transatlantic cooperation. Speaking at a military base, he said Berlin remained in “trusting contact” with its partners and reaffirmed Germany’s openness to take part in a mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once conditions allow.

The waterway has been largely blocked since the outbreak of the war on 28 February, disrupting oil shipments, driving energy prices higher and affecting global supply chains.

(reuters)