Angela Merkel's Revealing Memoir: Insights on Trump, Putin, and Life in the GDR

Angela Merkel's memoir 'Freedom: Memories 1954-2021' offers candid insights from her 16 years as Germany's Chancellor. It covers her interactions with global leaders like Putin and Trump, with reflections on the challenges she faced. Merkel recounts life in East Germany, highlighting her pragmatic survival amidst political constraints.

Angela Merkel's newly published memoir, 'Freedom: Memories 1954-2021,' unveils some of the most challenging interactions she encountered with global figures during her tenure as Germany's Chancellor. The candid insights touch on the complexities of dealing with leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump.

In the memoir, Merkel portrays Putin as a leader keen on maintaining Russia's position in a post-Cold War world, often engaging in power games. She recounts Putin's reluctance to adopt democratic structures, viewing his actions during the NATO summit in 2008 with skepticism. Meanwhile, her reflections on Trump present him as a businessman turned politician, perceiving global relations through a competitive lens.

Merkel also shares personal anecdotes from her life in East Germany, revealing how her pragmatic nature helped her navigate a state with strict political boundaries. She candidly explains how these experiences shaped her character during her leadership years, providing a unique perspective on her legacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)