- President Donald Trump has said the Ukraine war might need more time before peace talks start.
- He used a child-fight comparison, causing public debate and global concern.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, visiting Washington, stressed quick peace and blamed Putin directly.
- Talks also focused on NATO funding, trade struggles, and strengthening U.S.-Europe ties.
- Despite disagreements, Merz called Trump a major global figure and invited him to Germany.
Trump Says Conflict Should “Go On a Bit” Before Peace Talks
In a statement that caught many off guard, President Donald Trump said the fighting in Ukraine might have to continue for a while before peace can be discussed. Speaking at the White House with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz by his side, Trump likened the war to a playground fight, saying, “Sometimes it’s better to let them go at it for a bit, then separate them.”
This comment was a sharp turn from Trump’s previous public calls for ending the violence in Ukraine. His new position suggested that the pain of conflict could help both sides come to the negotiation table later. Trump also claimed he had shared this view with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin during a recent call, though there’s no official confirmation of such a conversation.
The remark stirred global attention and criticism, with many seeing it as support for continued bloodshed rather than diplomacy.
Merz Pushes for Peace, Warns Against Trade Conflict
While Trump drew headlines with his analogy, Chancellor Friedrich Merz stayed focused on peace. He firmly stated that ending the war was a shared goal of Western nations and made it clear that Putin bears full responsibility for the violence.
During their meeting, Merz handed Trump a framed copy of his grandfather’s German birth certificate—a friendly gesture that symbolized the long-standing bond between both countries. He also invited Trump to visit Germany and called him “a key global leader” who can help shape the direction of the war.
Their discussion touched on military spending, with Trump urging NATO members to raise their defense budgets to 5% of GDP—more than double the current target. Merz supported stronger investment but reminded Trump of Germany’s recent 100-billion-euro package aimed at modernizing its defense system.
Trade was another key topic. Trump repeated his warning that the U.S. could raise tariffs on European goods by up to 50% if talks with the EU stall. Merz responded by urging dialogue, saying harsh tariffs could slow down growth for both Europe and America. He highlighted Germany’s role as a top investor in the U.S. and called for balanced cooperation instead of economic tension.
As the world watches, the meeting highlighted deep differences in tone and strategy. Trump’s bold and confrontational approach was met by Merz’s calm and careful diplomacy. What happens next could shape the war in Ukraine, future trade deals, and the strength of the U.S.–European alliance.
