Overview
- Speaking in Mainz, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the invitation stands and that President Donald Trump told him he wants to come to Germany next year.
- Merz stressed that there is no confirmed timing for a visit and no scheduled stop in Berlin at this stage.
- The invitation followed a June Oval Office meeting where Merz presented a gold‑framed copy of Trump's grandfather's birth certificate and proposed a visit to Kallstadt in Rhineland‑Palatinate.
- Rhineland‑Palatinate’s state leader suggested the Hambach Castle could be included if a Pfalz visit occurs, though no itinerary has been agreed.
- German reports note Merz and Trump have maintained direct contact, including SMS exchanges, and point out Trump has previously floated German trips that did not materialize.