Germany news: Merkel urges patience for Merz's coalition
Key takeaways
- Gormer Chancellor Angela Merkel says she thinks people need to have patience with the coalition government, amid widespread dissatisfaction.
- 05/14/2026May 14, 2026Merkel advises 'fearless' approach toward TrumpMerkel in a photograph that became famous, with other world leaders including Trump.
- She said: "Not trying especially hard to please him — at least I never had any illusions about that, even when things were going well — nor trying to be especially provocative: that was how I handled it."
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
Gormer Chancellor Angela Merkel says she thinks people need to have patience with the coalition government, amid widespread dissatisfaction. Meanwhile, Germany's men are celebrating Father's Day. DW has the latest.
https://p.dw.com/p/5Dk ICMerkel and Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, once also touted as a possible future chancellor, give applause after a speech by Merz Image: Kay Nietfeld/dpa/picture alliance Advertisement Skip next section What you need to know What you need to know Angela Merkel has urged Germans to judge the government with "moderation and balance" The former chancellor said she wished the conservative-center-left coalition success but declined to comment in detail on its policies. Merkel advised Chancellor Friedrich Merz to show "a generous spirit" towards coalition partners Men across Germany are taking to the streets to celebrate Father's Day with friends Here are the latest stories that Germany is talking about on Thursday, May 14, 2026:
05/14/2026May 14, 2026Merkel advises 'fearless' approach toward TrumpMerkel in a photograph that became famous, with other world leaders including Trump. FILE: 09.06.2018.Image: Jesco Denzel/Bundesregierung/dpa/picture allianceOn dealing with US President Donald Trump, the former chancellor advised identifying common ground while otherwise acting "without fear."