At a recent event in Athens, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel openly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, recalling a notable incident from 2017 where Trump refused to shake her hand during a meeting. Merkel suggested that Trump’s actions were an attempt to draw attention and create a distraction. She emphasized the importance of the European Union maintaining a strong stance against Trump’s tariff policies, which she viewed as detrimental to international trade relations. Merkel also pointed out the significant differences in their worldviews, which contributed to a strained relationship during Trump’s presidency. This incident is emblematic of the broader tensions that characterized their interactions, reflecting deeper ideological divides between their respective administrations. Merkel’s comments underscore the challenges faced by European leaders in navigating diplomatic relations with the U.S. under Trump’s leadership, highlighting the need for unity within the EU to effectively counter policies perceived as adversarial. Her remarks serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in international diplomacy and the impact of personal dynamics on global political landscapes.