During talks in Washington, DC, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged US President Donald Trump to develop a long-term strategy for the Middle East, stressing a “common approach” for the security of the US, Europe, and Israel.

Trump praised Merz personally and described the US-Germany relationship as strong, while criticizing the UK and Spain for refusing to support US strikes on Iran.

He announced plans to cut all trade with Spain, calling it “terrible,” and defended US tariffs as a source of national wealth.

Both leaders discussed the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Trump admitting surprise at the difficulty in finding a resolution and Merz expressing hope for a quick end to the conflict, the DW has reported.

Regarding Iran, Trump said he anticipated lower oil prices after the war but warned of potential instability depending on who comes to power, mentioning Reza Pahlavi as a possible figure of interest.