President Trump and newly minted German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will meet Thursday at the White House with the conversation likely to center on foreign and trade policy.

The visit between Trump and Merz comes as the European Union is in talks with U.S. officials on a potential trade deal — and after the president's 50 percent tariff on steel and aluminum imports went into effect.

Merz has also been a strong defender of Ukraine amid its war with Russia. Trump too has aired frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks as ceasefire talks have been unfruitful.

The president also issued a new travel ban on Wednesday that will affect 19 countries starting next week, including 12 countries with full bans and seven with restrictions.

The event is scheduled to begin at 11

See Full Page