WASHINGTON (03/03/2026) — President Donald J. Trump received German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office for bilateral talks focusing on Operation Epic Fury, the situation in Iran, and U.S.–German trade relations.
The meeting took place amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, as the U.S. and Israel continue military operations against Iranian targets. The two leaders discussed security coordination, regional stability, and the role of European allies in light of recent developments.
In addition to security issues, bilateral trade and transatlantic economic cooperation were also key focuses. The two sides touched upon tariffs, supply chains, and trade balance within a volatile global economic context.
This marks the first face-to-face meeting between President Trump and Chancellor Merz since the launch of Operation Epic Fury. Observers believe the talks reflect efforts to maintain strategic coordination between Washington and Berlin during a sensitive period in international affairs.
