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U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed his criticism of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, highlighting growing tensions between Washington and Berlin over the ongoing war in Iran.

In a social media post, Trump said the German leader should focus more on domestic and European issues rather than commenting on U.S. policy in the Middle East.

“The Chancellor of Germany should spend more time on ending the war with Russia/Ukraine (Where he has been totally ineffective!), and fixing his broken Country, especially Immigration and Energy, and less time on interfering with those that are getting rid of the Iranian nuclear threat,” Trump wrote.

He added that U.S. actions against Iran are “making the World, including Germany, a safer place.”

The exchange follows comments by Merz questioning Washington’s approach to the Iran conflict. He raised concerns about the lack of a clear exit strategy, referencing past U.S. military engagements.

“The problem with conflicts like this is that you don’t just have to get in, you have to get out again. We saw that very painfully in Afghanistan for 20 years. We saw it in Iraq,” Merz said.

He also suggested that Iran was gaining leverage in negotiations, describing Tehran’s approach as “humiliating” for the United States.

Trump rejected the criticism earlier, saying Merz “doesn’t know what he’s talking about” and accusing him of interfering in U.S. policy.

Germany Signals Approval for US Troop Reduction

Amid the dispute, Trump said his administration is considering reducing the number of U.S. troops stationed in Germany, a key hub for American military operations in Europe.

Germany has responded by saying it is prepared for such a move while emphasizing continued cooperation within NATO.

“We are prepared for that,” German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said. “We are discussing it closely and in a spirit of trust in all NATO bodies, and we are expecting decisions from the Americans about this.”

Wadephul added that any decisions should be made in coordination with allies. He also stressed that major U.S. military installations in Germany remain critical.

“The Ramstein Air Base has an irreplaceable function for the United States and for us alike. Large American bases in Germany are not up for discussion at all,” he said.

According to U.S. data, around 68,000 American troops are stationed in Europe, with approximately 36,400 based in Germany.

Berlin Seeks to Contain Fallout

German officials have sought to clarify Merz’s earlier remarks and prevent further escalation. Wadephul defended the chancellor, saying his comments were intended to urge Iran to engage seriously in negotiations.

“The chancellor issued a completely correct and clear warning to Iran to now negotiate seriously. That was what the federal chancellor said. It was correct, I defend it,” he said.

He also echoed U.S. concerns about Iran’s approach to talks. “What we currently see is that Iran is playing for time and not really negotiating in a way that is necessary,” Wadephul said.

At the same time, Berlin has reaffirmed its commitment to the transatlantic alliance. “We are following a clear compass, especially during this turbulent phase; this compass remains focused on a strong NATO and a reliable transatlantic partnership,” Merz said.

“As you know, this transatlantic partnership is particularly close to our hearts – and to mine personally,” German Chancellor Merz added.

Strains within NATO Framework

The disagreement reflects broader tensions within NATO over the Iran war, which the United States launched alongside Israel without direct involvement from European allies.

Trump has expressed frustration with NATO members for not participating more actively in the conflict or supporting efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The war has had global economic effects, particularly on energy markets, with prices rising amid continued instability. Despite tensions, both sides have continued diplomatic engagement.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul recently discussed Middle East security and maritime routes in a phone call.

The United States has framed the war as necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. However, previous U.S. intelligence assessments have indicated that Tehran was not actively building such a weapon.

In earlier statements, Trump said U.S. strikes on Iranian facilities had “obliterated” the country’s nuclear program. Merz has called for increased pressure on Iran, including sanctions, while also urging a return to negotiations.

“Iran’s military nuclear program must be ended. There must be no more strikes against Israel and partners in the region,” he said. The situation remains fluid, with a ceasefire currently in place following mediation efforts, while political tensions between the United States and Germany continue.