Donald Trump has welcomed German chancellor Angel Merkel to the White House ahead of a meeting where he is expected to urge her to increase Nato spending.

The pair held an awkward meeting that could help determine the future of the transatlantic alliance and shape the working relationship between two of the world's most powerful leaders.


While the President greeted the German leader with a handshake upon her arrival at the White House, he appeared to ignore requests to do so as the pair sat together later in front of TV cameras.

Mrs Merkel has repeatedly clashed with the president in the past, notably when he branded her open door refugee policy a "catastrophic" error.

For her part, Mrs Merkel has been a staunch opponent of Mr Trump's travel ban, which she said was "unjustified."

In footage of the photo opportunity, as photographers call for the two to shake hands, Ms Merkel can be heard saying: "Do you want to have a handshake?
Mr Trump briefly turns towards her, but continues sitting with his legs apart and hands together.

She then turns back to face the cameras, smiling thinly.

Despite the seemingly frosty nature of the joint appearance, both leaders described their meeting in brief remarks to reporters as having been very good.

The meeting is consequential for both sides.