Merz spoke of a growing rift between the U.S. and Europe
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that transatlantic relations are changing, and that the U.S. and Europe are gradually drifting apart due to differing priorities.
He made these remarks in an interview with Der Spiegel.
According to Merz, Washington is no longer willing to unconditionally guarantee Europe’s security, while European countries themselves are seeking to reduce their dependence on the US.
He emphasized that this process is mutual and has been ongoing for several years.
The chancellor also stressed the need to strengthen unity in Europe, particularly through the development of its own defense capabilities.
In his view, Europe’s diplomatic power will only be effective if it is backed by military capabilities. Merz called for dialogue with France on strengthening the defense of the European continent.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that his personal relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump remains constructive, despite differing views on the war in Iran. During a press conference in Berlin, the head of the German government emphasized the continuation of active transatlantic dialogue.
Prior to this, the German chancellor criticized U.S. policy toward Iran. He noted that Washington lacks a strategy in the ongoing war, and that the American nation has been “humiliated” by the Iranian leadership due to the failed negotiations in Islamabad.
