Merkel: Trump’s Return to the White House is a Source of Sadness and Concern

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed her sadness over Donald Trump’s return to power, describing him as a "challenge to the world," particularly to multilateralism. She characterized her interactions with Trump as a personal competition, where he constantly sought to assert dominance.

Merkel recalled awkward moments, such as Trump’s refusal to shake her hand during their first meeting at the White House in 2017, highlighting his approach of strengthening his position by weakening others. She also expressed disappointment at Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris, noting her earlier regret over Hillary Clinton’s loss in 2016, stating she would have preferred a completely different political outcome.