Merz: U.S. in 'Strong Position' to Counter Putin as Trump Suggests Letting Them Fight It Out

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged U.S. President Donald Trump to use America's global influence to end Russia’s war in Ukraine during a high-profile bilateral meeting. Merz emphasized that the United States is in a "very strong position" to intervene, drawing historical parallels by referencing the pivotal American role in ending World War II on the eve of the D-Day anniversary. "Let's talk about what we can do jointly, and we are ready to do what we can," Merz stated, underlining calls for increased international pressure on Moscow in coordination with European allies.

In response, President Trump offered a contentious analogy, likening the conflict between Russia and Ukraine to "two young children fighting like crazy" in a park. He suggested that sometimes it is "too early" to intervene, implying that ongoing hostilities might need to continue before a durable resolution is possible. "Sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart," Trump remarked. He revealed that he had shared this perspective directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a recent phone call, telling the Kremlin leader that the fighting might have to persist and result in significant suffering.

The exchange comes at a sensitive moment, as violence in Ukraine continues unabated. Shortly after Trump's call with Putin, Russia launched a drone strike in Ukraine that reportedly killed five people, raising questions about the effectiveness and timing of diplomatic interventions. The incident highlights continuing instability in the region despite international appeals for de-escalation.

Chancellor Merz, who has recently taken steps to bolster Germany's military support for Ukraine by lifting strike bans, was pressed by reporters about whether he agreed with Trump's suggestion to let the war continue. Merz carefully avoided a direct contradiction but made it clear that his approach differs sharply. "I think we both agree on this war and how terrible this war is. And we are both looking for ways to stop it very soon," he said, reiterating his belief that America bears a unique responsibility. "He is the key person in the world who can really do that now by putting pressure on Russia."

Merz concluded by reaffirming Germany’s commitment to Ukraine. "We are on the side of Ukraine, and we are trying to get them stronger and stronger just to make Putin stop this war. This is our approach," he declared, signaling ongoing European resolve to counter Russian aggression through unity and support for Kyiv, even as policy differences with Washington become more pronounced.