Merz Would Not Recommend His Children Live in the US

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said during an address at Catholic Day in Wurzburg that he would not recommend his children go to the US to study or work, according to the Bild newspaper.

Merz said Germany offers a social market economy rather than "pure capitalism" and that young people are finding it increasingly difficult to find jobs in America. He also sought to convince young Germans that the country still has good prospects despite its problems.

Shortly afterwards, however, Merz telephoned US President Donald Trump, ending what the media described as a period of tension between Berlin and Washington. The two leaders agreed on the need for negotiations with Iran, the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and continued coordination on Ukraine and NATO.

Merz's critical remarks about the US drew a sharp reaction from Trump's close ally Richard Grenell, who accused the chancellor of anti-American attitudes and weak leadership.

(mja)