From there, the president pivoted to defense spending, another of his longstanding grievances with Germany and other European allies, whom he accuses of not paying their fair share.
Advertisement
“NATO is wonderful but it helps Europe more than us so why are we paying the biggest share?” Trump asked.
Though Trump has often made such arguments, to do so alongside a foreign guest of Merkel’s stature amounted to nothing short of a diplomatic affront.
Trump insisted he and the German chancellor “have a great relationship,” but their body language suggested otherwise.
Merkel, who is used to being the most powerful person in the room, stood stonefaced next to Trump in the East Room, looking away as he spoke, pursing her lips.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member