User:Critter2234/sandbox

It's likely not appropriate to call Merkel the "leader of the Free World". The term "free world", is US-centric, and the US has always been (regardless of whomever sits in the White House) the leader of the free world. Now, unless there is some great technological advancement, fiscal/material change, or geopolitical shift, it will stay that way.

Opposing viewpoints to Trump's policies (well founded ones, especially on the steel and aluminum tariff stuff) does not suddenly make Germany the bastion of liberalism and openness or the free world's leader. Core values still unite the US and EU, and we remain committed to working together on a host of issues, especially in reference to our counter-terrorism efforts. Anyways, just my two cents. The "free world leader" designation given to Merkel seems to be more politically motivated, as it can't be substantively backed with quantitative or even strong qualitative support.