Merz on Trump Tariffs: 'Terrible Impact' on German Auto Industry

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz voiced serious concerns about the damaging effects of President Trump's tariffs on the German automotive sector during a recent interview with CNN's Jake Tapper. The Chancellor pointed out that the tariffs have had a "terrible" impact on German car manufacturers, who export hundreds of thousands of vehicles to the US annually. "The impact is terrible," Merz stated, emphasizing the significant economic consequences for Germany. He used the example of the substantial number of BMWs and Mercedes-Benz cars exported to the United States, illustrating the scale of the trade disruption. Merz stressed that transatlantic trade is not a one-way street and expressed hope for a swift resolution to the trade conflict, highlighting its potential to negatively affect both nations. This highlights the importance of international cooperation and the need for balanced trade policies.