Merz denies troop drawdown linked to Trump row

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany dismissed allegations that his criticisms of U.S. military strategy in Iran influenced Washington's choice to cut 5,000 soldiers from its forces in Germany. In an interview with ARD, Merz recognized his differences with President Donald Trump but emphasized the significance of the transatlantic partnership. Trump had labeled Merz as an 'ineffectual' leader after Merz raised concerns about whether Trump had a strategy for the Middle East and remarked on the U.S. being 'embarrassed' in negotiations regarding Iran. Merz stated there was 'no connection' between their disagreement and the troop withdrawal, highlighting that Trump had previously supported a reduced U.S. presence in Germany and consistently urged European nations to assume more responsibility for their security.