Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany told reporters he anticipates U.S. President Donald Trump will continue to act around Congress despite his party's losses in recent midterm elections. The remark, reported by international outlets, signals a concern in Berlin about how shifts in Washington's domestic politics could affect decision-making at the executive level.
Merz, who leads Europe's largest economy, did not outline specific measures he expected from the U.S. president but framed his expectation as a likely continuation of a pattern of presidential action that does not rely on congressional approval. His comments come as European leaders assess how changes in U.S. political dynamics might influence transatlantic cooperation on economic, security and regulatory matters.
Analysts say such statements reflect broader unease in Europe about the implications of an assertive U.S. presidency for international diplomacy and multilateral institutions. If a White House were to pursue policies without congressional backing, it could create uncertainty for allies negotiating on trade, defense commitments and global challenges that require sustained cooperation.
European capitals and businesses typically prefer predictability and clear channels for negotiation with Washington. Merz's public expectation that the president will continue to bypass Congress underscores the prospect that Berlin and other partners may need to prepare for more direct engagement with the executive branch and for policy shifts that can emerge without legislative consensus.
It remains to be seen how the Trump administration will act in specific policy areas going forward. For now, Merz's comments add to an ongoing conversation among Western allies about how best to manage relations with a U.S. government whose domestic politics can complicate long-term planning and joint initiatives.