In a recent interview on the ARD program “Caren Miosga” which was recorded on a Sunday afternoon, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) reaffirmed his criticism of the US-Iran strategy. He defended his statement that Iran had “humiliated” the United States.
He stated that he made it clear to Trump: “If you want us to help you in a conflict like that, call us first”. Although Merz emphasized that he would not abandon cooperation with Donald Trump, he continues to argue for the importance of transatlantic relations.
Regarding the announcement that the US would withdraw 5,000 of its own soldiers from Germany-a move reportedly interpreted as a reaction to the German Chancellor’s comments-Merz remained notably calm. He clarified that this contingent was stationed temporarily under the orders of Joe Biden, and that discussions about its departure had taken place over a long period. He dismissed any direct connection between the announced troop withdrawal and his public disagreements with Trump concerning the Iran conflict, stating emphatically that there was “no connection”.
When pressed on the US commitment to the nuclear deterrent role within NATO, Merz confirmed that there would be “no cuts whatsoever”. He stressed that “there is no limitation on the American commitment to the nuclear deterrence of the NATO region. There are no doubts at any point”.
While acknowledging that US President Trump holds differing views, Merz concluded by maintaining his core belief: “But that changes nothing about my conviction that the Americans are the most important partners for us within the North Atlantic Alliance”.
