Trump vs Merkel: low-key and pragmatic vs bombastic and impulsive
If the German chancellor gets a fourth term, as is expected, she will have to deal with her polar opposite in Donald Trump in the long term
Washington — The first time Donald Trump met Angela Merkel, pictures of their awkward non-handshake in the Oval Office went around the world — and the months that followed did little to break the ice. But if the German chancellor sails her way — as widely predicted — to a fourth term in Sunday’s legislative elections, the leaders of the US and Germany will have to figure out a way to work together in the long term. Pretty much everything about "Mutti," as Europe’s most influential leader is known at home, sets her apart from the occupant of the White House, from their background to their personality and political style. Merkel is as cautious, low-key and pragmatic while the US president is impulsive, blustery and unpredictable. Since the start of the year, the pastor’s daughter from East Germany has left the world in little doubt as to her deep differences with the American president — the third she has worked with after George W Bush and Barack Obama. When addressing a joint press ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.