BERLIN (Reuters) - Friedrich Merz, the leading candidate for the chancellery in Germany's upcoming election, said a leaked briefing by Germany's ambassador to the United States heavily criticising Donald Trump was damaging to the German government's reputation.

Friedrich Merz, front-runner to become Germany’s next chancellor, called incoming US President Donald Trump a “very predictable leader” with a clear agenda who’ll force Europe to carry out necessary reforms more quickly.

Mr Merz argued the need “to negotiate with the American side from a position of strength”. Read more at straitstimes.com.

BERLIN (Reuters) - German opposition leader Friedrich Merz, tipped to become chancellor in next month's election, said on Tuesday U.S. President Donald Trump could prove an interesting partner for Europe provided the region had a strong common negotiating position.

Opposition leader Friedrich Merz, the frontrunner to become Germany's next chancellor, said the second presidency of Donald Trump would bring clarity for the European Union as he hosted conservative EU heavyweights in Berlin.

Europeans should face US President Donald Trump with self-confidence and in unity, Friedrich Merz, the main conservative candidate for chancellor in upcoming German elections said on Monday. Trump had been elected and would now lead the United States,