LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE
Angela Merkel's View on the Potential Return of Donald Trump
Perspectives of the Former German Chancellor on Trump and Multilateralism
23 November 2024 · 22:26 UTC
Merkel, who interacted with Trump during his presidency, described their relationship as competitive, noting the tension during her tenure due to his unconventional approach.
She tried to manage his unpredictability, illustrated by the notable 2017 incident when he declined her request for a handshake.
Merkel regarded Trump's style as transactional, focused on enhancing his position rather than promoting cooperation, which is crucial for multilateralism.
Her reflections also included disappointment over Hillary Clinton's 2016 loss, suggesting a preference for leaders who pursue constructive dialogue.
Merkel's insights into leadership dynamics in a polarized global landscape might feature in her upcoming memoirs, potentially offering guidance for current and future leaders.