President Donald Trump will welcome German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to the White House on Thursday for the first in-person meeting between the leaders.

The meeting comes as President Trump’s promise to end the war in Ukraine has remained elusive, as the U.S. has pressured European allies to increase defense spending and sought to reset international trade with sweeping tariff policies.

"I am looking forward to the visit. We are well-prepared. NATO will be a major topic, as will trade and Ukraine. When we talk about German domestic politics (AFD), I will use clear words,” Merz said ahead of the meeting.

The U.S. has called for European allies to shoulder more responsibility in the continent's defense.

Germany has been a major backer of Ukraine’s defense amid Russia’s invasion. Merz has

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