German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told the German Catholic Convention in Würzburg that he would not recommend that his children or other young Germans move to the United States for study or work, citing 'the social climate that has suddenly developed' there.

'I am a great admirer of America, but right now my admiration is not increasing,' Merz said to an audience of 1,600, many of them young. He added that even the best-educated Americans have great difficulty finding a job.

The remarks come amid a public spat between Merz and US President Donald Trump. Merz had previously said Iran was 'humiliating' Washington, prompting Trump to criticize the German leader and announce the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany.

Merz acknowledged that his government could improve communication and delivery of results. Only 13% of Germans are satisfied with the federal government, and Merz's approval rating stands at just 16%.

The German government warned that the Iran war would likely cause a significant economic slowdown in the second quarter. Rising prices, supply chain issues, and uncertainty are weighing on businesses and households.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, high energy costs have led to a 15.2% drop in production in energy-intensive industries since February 2022 and the loss of tens of thousands of jobs.

Meanwhile, Frankfurt customs seized nearly 30,000 rare plants and animals, as well as drugs worth €190 million and half a million counterfeit items last year.

Source: www.dw.com