Angela Merkel to Visit White House on Feb. 9

President Barack Obama will play host to German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Washington, D.C. next week, the White House said Monday.

Ms. Merkel will visit the White House on Feb. 9, where she and the U.S. president are expected to discuss issues such as Russia, Ukraine, counterterrorism and the challenges in the broader Middle East. The two leaders will have an Oval Office meeting followed by a working lunch.

“Germany is a close and valued ally, partner, and friend of the United States, and the president looks f