Angela Merkel Discusses Trump in New Memoir

In her memoir 'Freedom', former German Chancellor Angela Merkel reveals Donald Trump's fascination with autocratic leaders, particularly Russian President Vladimir Putin. Merkel recounts her first meeting with Trump in 2017, where he expressed curiosity about her East German background and displayed admiration for Putin, indicating a broader attraction to dictatorial tendencies. She describes her discomfort after the meeting, noting a lack of connection as Trump ignored her subtle cues for a second handshake and repeated critiques of Germany's refugee policy and defense spending. Merkel sought advice from Pope Francis on how to engage with Trump, whom she viewed as having a transactional, property developer mentality. The memoir, which covers her extensive political career, is set to be published in 30 languages and reflects on her leadership during crucial global events, including the Ukraine crisis. Critics of Merkel suggest that unresolved issues from her tenure may impact Germany's future political landscape.