Merkel Reflects on Leadership Challenges with Trump and Putin
In her upcoming memoirs, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel shares her insights on navigating the complexities of international relations during her tenure, particularly with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Merkel recounts her initial concerns about Trump when he was elected in 2016, revealing that she sought advice from Pope Francis on how to engage with him. She describes Trump as someone who viewed the world through the lens of a real estate developer, emphasizing a transactional approach to global issues.
Merkel's memoirs, titled "Freedom. Memories 1954-2021," highlight her efforts to maintain a stable relationship with Trump, especially regarding his intention to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement. She recalls Pope Francis advising her to persist in dialogue without severing ties, a strategy she employed throughout her interactions with Trump.
Insights on NATO and Relations with Putin
The memoirs also delve into Merkel's cautious approach toward NATO expansion, particularly concerning Ukraine. She reflects on the 2008 NATO summit in Bucharest, where she expressed concerns about the potential military repercussions from Russia if Ukraine were to join the alliance. Merkel notes that at the time, only a small percentage of Ukrainians supported NATO membership, which influenced her stance and has since drawn criticism from Ukrainian officials.
Merkel's experiences with Putin are also a focal point of her memoirs. She describes him as a leader eager for recognition and respect, portraying him as someone who was always ready to assert his power. This perspective is particularly poignant in light of Russia's subsequent invasion of Ukraine, which she indirectly addresses by recalling Putin's warning that he wanted to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO.
Merkel, who served as Chancellor from 2005 to 2021, is set to launch her memoirs in the U.S. alongside former President Barack Obama, underscoring her significant role in global politics during her time in office.
