German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned that growing uncertainty over global tariffs is becoming the biggest “poison” for both European and American economies, signaling the need for stability ahead of his planned visit to Washington.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Merz said he intends to work closely with countries of the European Union to build a coordinated position before traveling to the U.S. capital, stressing that Europe must approach talks with a unified stance.
“I will go to Washington with a coordinated European position,” Merz said, according to reporting by Reuters. His remarks come shortly before Donald Trump announced a new 15% tariff rate, a move that has intensified concerns about trade tensions and economic uncertainty.
Merz emphasized that ongoing unpredictability in trade policy is harming investment, business planning, and transatlantic economic cooperation. According to the German chancellor, both sides of the Atlantic need clearer rules and long-term stability to protect economic growth.
“The biggest poison for the economies of Europe and the United States is this constant uncertainty regarding tariffs,” Merz said, warning that the situation must be resolved quickly. He added that predictable trade relations remain essential for maintaining strong economic ties between Europe and the United States.
The upcoming visit to Washington is expected to focus on trade policy, tariff disputes, and broader economic coordination, as European leaders attempt to prevent escalating measures that could affect industries and markets on both continents.
