Friedrich Merz presses Trump to increase pressure on Russia amid Ukraine war

Germany's newly-inaugurated Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with United States President Donald Trump at the White House on June 5, 2025. This significant encounter marked Merz's first visit to Washington since assuming office and came amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine. During their discussions, Merz advocated for intensified pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the need for strength as a means to establish peace as the conflict continues to escalate. Merz, a staunch transatlanticist, has prioritized building strong bilateral relations with the US, particularly in the context of defense spending and trade disagreements. He highlighted plans for Germany to increase its NATO defense spending to 3.5 percent of GDP, aligning with Trump’s insistence on NATO members contributing more economically to collective security. Merz’s approach seeks to reinforce Germany's role in European security while navigating the challenges posed by the Trump administration’s unpredictable trade policies. In addition to military spending discussions, the meeting also touched upon the contentious topic of Trump's tariffs on European imports. Merz expressed the need for a confident stance from Europe in trade negotiations, firmly stating that Germany would not act as a supplicant in dealings with the US. This reflects a broader ambition from Germany’s leadership to secure a favorable economic footing while maintaining essential alliances with transatlantic partners amidst increasing international tensions. The meeting unfolded against the backdrop of a new sanctions bill being introduced in the US Senate, aimed at holding Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine. Merz urged Trump to support these sanctions, reflecting Germany's commitment to Ukraine and its sovereignty. His clear message was that only through decisive action could the international community effectively push back against Russian aggression, a stance that is critical for the ongoing conflict's resolution and future peace efforts.