The German government is sticking to its plans to acquire Tomahawk missiles from the United States, despite the strained relations between Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and US Donald Trump. Transatlantic Coordinator Metin Hakverdi stated that there are opportunities to improve the relationship between Merz and Trump.
Hakverdi, who has been in office for nearly a year, emphasized that Germany’s security policy requirements are met or even exceeded from the US perspective. He said, “This does not change the fact that Germany meets or even exceeds security policy requirements from the US viewpoint.”
Relations between Berlin and Washington have changed significantly in recent months, particularly following critical remarks from Merz about US policy. Hakverdi pointed out that Trump’s reaction to Merz’s criticism is seen as a personal disappointment, complicating diplomatic efforts.
The upcoming NATO summit in early July in Ankara is viewed as an important opportunity to highlight Germany’s contribution to security. Hakverdi added that Merz’s recent comments regarding Trump’s lack of strategy in the Middle East further strain relations.
Nevertheless, the German government remains optimistic that the purchase of Tomahawks is still possible.
