Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel recently shared her impressions of former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in an exclusive interview. Merkel noted Trump's fascination with the power of strongmen like Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his time in office.
In her new book reflecting on her 16-year tenure as Germany's leader, Merkel discussed the challenges faced by Europe, including economic crises, migration issues, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. She expressed concerns about the current threats faced by liberal democracies.
Merkel recalled her first meeting with Trump in 2017, highlighting his unconventional behavior and admiration for autocratic leaders. She noted Trump's desire to make decisions independently, which she found incompatible with democratic values.
Regarding Putin, Merkel shared insights into their relationship, including a notable incident where Putin brought a large dog to a meeting to test her resilience. Merkel also discussed the strained ties between Europe and Russia, particularly after NATO's declaration about Ukraine and Georgia joining the alliance.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Merkel emphasized the challenges of negotiating with Putin and the importance of providing security guarantees to Kyiv. She acknowledged criticisms of her leadership, especially regarding Germany's reliance on Russian gas and its impact on European dynamics.
Despite facing scrutiny over her decisions, Merkel defended her actions, emphasizing the need to consider the context of each situation. She refrained from making judgments in hindsight and highlighted the complexities of governance.
As Merkel's legacy comes under scrutiny, her insights into international relations and leadership shed light on the complexities of navigating global politics. Her experiences with Trump, Putin, and other world leaders offer valuable perspectives on diplomacy and the challenges of upholding democratic values in a changing world.
