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.

Germany's conservative opposition leader Friedrich Merz, frontrunner in polls to become the next chancellor, on Tuesday urged a united European stance in talks with US President Donald Trump.

The incumbent government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, a Social Democrat (SPD), has styled itself as a champion of the rules-based international order and, in the case of Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, of an ethical, feminist foreign policy.

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.

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,