US President Donald Trump made an unexpected statement directed at German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a joint press conference held at the White House. It was reported that Trump, while addressing questions about the approach to Germany, said:

“How are we going to deal with Germany? I think we should hit them very, very hard.”

After that, he slapped his hand on the thigh of the sitting Merz, who, showing no negative reaction, simply smiled and shook his head.

Additionally, Merz expressed the opinion that the tension in relations between the US, Israel, and Iran negatively impacts the German economy. He emphasized the importance of swiftly concluding this military campaign.