President Donald Trump is hosting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Washington, D.C., as the United States continues its massive air and naval campaign against Iran.
The meeting is set to begin at 11:15 a.m.
The visit will be Merz’s third since taking office. He will be the first world leader to meet with Trump personally since Operation Epic Fury began on Saturday.
Germany possesses one of the most powerful militaries in the European Union but has so far voiced neutrality in the conflict with Iran. Despite this, Merz openly voiced limited support for the U.S. in its campaign, saying he has an “understanding” of the U.S.-Israeli action, and that Germany “shares the relief of many Iranians that this mullah regime is now coming to an end.”
The chancellor also said Germany is interested in putting an end to Iran’s “dangerous nuclear and ballistic armament,” but acknowledged the weakness of Germany’s post-World War II military.
“Now is not the moment to lecture our partners and allies — despite all doubts, we share many of their goals without being able to actually achieve them ourselves,” Merz said.
Outside of Iran, Merz has plenty of other issues to discuss with Trump, including tariffs, the war in Ukraine, and smoothing over tensions after this year’s rift over Greenland.
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