Germany has postponed a planned Merz-Trump call, a conversation between Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump. The German government cited no direct link to Trump’s recent praise for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. However, the decision comes days after Trump lauded the AfD’s victory in Saxony-Anhalt.
Trump had celebrated the AfD’s success online, calling it a “really big night” for a “populist party in Germany.” He also used the acronym “MGGA,” echoing his “Make America Great Again” slogan. Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius reiterated Merz’s long-standing position. Foreign interventions or commentary on German domestic politics, particularly during elections, are unacceptable, Merz believes.
The AfD’s election win has intensified pressure on Merz and his conservative Christian Democratic Union. Despite the AfD emerging as the strongest party, other political groups, including the Greens and Social Democrats, have firmly rejected invitations for coalition talks. Building a stable government in Magdeburg remains highly uncertain.
Meanwhile, US defense firm Covenant plans to begin manufacturing cruise missiles in Germany by early 2027. The company intends to produce its long-range Anthem missiles in Leipzig, eastern Germany. This initiative aims to address a “capability gap” within European armed forces, responding to growing concerns over Russia.
Separately, Chancellor Merz has again called for significant cuts to the next EU long-term budget. He argued that the European Commission’s proposed almost €2 trillion spending plan for 2028-34 is unaffordable. Merz urged a reprioritization towards competitiveness and defense.
Other news from Germany includes an all-clear at the Rheinfelden border post after a car search for explosives. Porsche completed the sale of its remaining stakes in Bugatti and Rimac, raising approximately €1 billion. Confectionery giant Haribo also canceled its annual chestnuts-for-sweets trade-in for the second year due to African swine fever risks.
In Thuringia, former Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) lawmakers formed a new group, Gerecht, maintaining a “firewall” against the AfD. Prosecutors are investigating Steffen Krach, the Social Democrats’ top candidate for the Berlin election, over potential corruption allegations. Additionally, Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich signed teen talent Tim Binder to his first professional contract.
