Merkel’s First Conversation with Trump: Discussing Ukraine and European Security
On his first day in office as Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz had his initial phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump, during which they discussed issues concerning Ukraine and European stability. Regional and international sources report that the conversation took place on the evening of May 8 and marked an important step in intergovernmental contacts amid current challenges. According to information from German sources, including diplomatic circles, the parties agreed on several key points. First, there was an extremely important agreement on the need for a quick and effective resolution of trade disputes that strain relations between the U.S. and Germany. Special attention was also given to the issue of the war in Ukraine — both sides emphasized the necessity of its swift ending. Deputy officials and political experts note that during the conversation, an idea was voiced that Russia should agree to a ceasefire to create a conducive environment for future negotiations. An official spokesperson for the German government stated that Trump assured strong U.S. support for Europe's efforts to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine. Additionally, sources report that the conversation lasted approximately 30 minutes and was filled with a desire for dialogue aimed at strengthening bilateral and international efforts toward peace and stability. Interesting is the fact that Merz and Trump also discussed the possibility of a personal meeting. The Chancellor invited the former U.S. president to Germany, and Trump signaled that he was willing to consider this proposal. It is worth noting that Trump's last visit to Germany took place in 2017 during the G20 summit, but he is highly likely to appear in Europe again. At the same time, Trump also invited Merz to Washington, reflecting the German government's desire to intensify dialogue with the U.S. According to the press service, Merz plans to visit the United States in the coming months — ahead of the G7 and NATO summits in June — which already attracts interest and analytical attention in Ukrainian and European politics. This indicates a new format of cooperation where Germany and the U.S. aim to align their joint goals in maintaining peace in Ukraine and countering Russian aggression. It is also significant that on the same evening, Merz had his first interaction as Chancellor with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The novelty and importance of these two negotiations underscore the growing role of Germany's new administration in the realm of international diplomacy regarding Ukraine. Thus, Merz’s initial steps in office indicate a desire for a more active and responsible German stance in global politics, particularly concerning conflict resolution in Ukraine and strengthening European security. The conversations with Trump so far open new horizons for German-American cooperation in this vital area, which is crucial for the future of the region and the European continent as a whole.