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News Analysis

Stuck with the fallout from America’s war in Iran, European leaders have criticized the president publicly. When he’s been angered, they haven’t backed down.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany is one of several European leaders who has openly criticized President Trump. Credit... Annegret Hilse/Reuters

May 13, 2026, 12:01 a.m. ET

In the days after he infuriated President Trump by criticizing America’s war in Iran, Friedrich Merz, the chancellor of Germany, professed affection for the United States. When the Pentagon abruptly said it would pull 5,000 troops from Germany, Mr. Merz and his aides projected calm .

What Mr. Merz did not do was apologize.

In refusing to back down, Mr. Merz was adopting what has by now become a widespread tactic among European leaders who have provoked Mr.…