The first country openly opposing the United States has emerged! German Chancellor Merkel's remarks were like knives, directly targeting U.S. President Trump! On April 27th, regarding the U.S.-Iran conflict, German Chancellor Merkel spoke out. Merkel’s statement primarily conveyed three key points. First, Merkel characterized the U.S.-Iran conflict as America being humiliated by the Iranian leadership. Second, regarding Iran’s conduct, Merkel praised Iran’s negotiation skills as highly sophisticated, and clearly stronger than previously assumed.

Third, on the prospects of U.S.-Iran negotiations, Merkel bluntly stated: I see no clear exit strategy chosen by Americans. Clearly, such open affirmation of Iran and outright rejection of the United States makes Merkel’s speech a sharp stab at America. Merkel’s remarks are likely the only instance among European nations where a country so openly mocks the U.S. and publicly undermines American credibility. Why did Merkel speak so explicitly?

The most critical reason is that while the U.S. attacks Iran, Europe suffers the consequences. Oil and gas prices have surged dramatically, industrial costs in Germany have skyrocketed, placing immense pressure on Germany’s economy. To Germany, the U.S. has solved none of its problems but instead created a host of new ones. It’s evident that Germany can no longer contain its frustration toward U.S. actions. Germany aims to make clear: our stance toward U.S. behavior is one of disengagement.

Logically speaking, such open defiance of the U.S. should make Germany fear potential retaliation. Yet, knowing that Trump is capricious and unpredictable, Germany still delivered such sharp words—indicating that, in Germany’s eyes, the U.S. is no longer worthy of respect or fear. In the past, European countries relied entirely on the U.S., following American lead in all matters without dissent. Now, however, the image of the U.S. in allies’ eyes has become one of hollow strength. If even Iran has left the U.S. looking so vulnerable, it’s clear that European nations will no longer depend on the U.S. as they once did.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863635036021835/

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