German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed waning admiration for the US, stating on 15/5 in Wurzburg that he would not recommend his children study or work there. He cited the rapidly changing social environment, including political polarization and job market challenges, as reasons for his view.

"I greatly admire the US. However, that admiration is not currently growing," Merz said at a conference for young Catholics. The 70-year-old father of three elaborated, "Today, I would not advise my children to study or work in the US, due to the rapidly changing social environment there. Even the most qualified people in the US are struggling to find work."

In contrast, Merz urged Germans to be optimistic about their nation's prospects. He advised against viewing the world "through a lens of catastrophe," adding, "I am certain that very few countries in the world offer as many great opportunities as Germany, especially for young people."

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at an event in Marsberg on 27/4. Photo: AP

Washington has not officially responded to Merz's remarks, but Republicans reacted strongly. Richard Grenell, a veteran Republican foreign policy advisor and former US ambassador to Germany during Trump's first term, wrote on X, "Merz has become the leader of the 'Trump obsession club' in Europe."

Alice Weidel, leader of Germany's far-right, criticized Merz, stating "it is ridiculous for a chancellor who is pushing his country into economic recession to warn people about the political environment in the US."

Tensions between Germany and the US escalated after Merz and some European leaders criticized the US-Israel campaign against Iran. On 27/4, Merz stated that Tehran was "humiliating" Washington at the negotiating table, prompting a strong reaction from President Trump.

The White House announced in early May that the US would withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany. President Trump later indicated the reduction "would be more than 5,000 people." He had previously warned that the US might reduce troop presence in Italy and Spain, countries he criticized for not supporting the anti-Iran campaign.

Despite these developments, Merz affirmed his commitment to the transatlantic relationship. On 4/5, he asserted that European members of NATO could ensure their deterrence capabilities without US assistance. However, on 15/5, he confirmed a phone conversation with President Trump, who was returning from Beijing. They discussed Iran, Ukraine, and the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara. Merz concluded, "The US and Germany remain strong partners within a resilient NATO bloc."