Angela Merkel's Diplomatic Legacy

Angela Merkel's tenure as German Chancellor showcased her adeptness in navigating complex international relations, particularly with influential leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. Merkel emphasized that with Trump, representing one's interests clearly was crucial, as he viewed negotiations in a win-lose framework rather than seeking mutual benefits. This approach reflected her broader diplomatic strategy, which centered on establishing respect even amidst challenging negotiations, such as when she interpreted Trump's actions during their first meeting. Conversely, her relationship with Putin was shaped by their shared backgrounds in East Germany, allowing her to engage more personally, but she cautioned that their differing worldviews made harmonious relations difficult.