Merz Advocates for European Independence Amid U.S. Policy Tensions

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stresses the need for European independence in security policy following the Trump administration's national security strategy, which criticized Europe. Merz rebuffed the notion of needing U.S. intervention and highlighted Europe’s capacity to govern itself while urging for balanced partnerships.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has emphasized Europe's need to become more independent from the United States concerning security policy, following the Trump administration's national security strategy revelations. His remarks come amid recent critiques of European allies by the U.S., painting them as weak while supporting far-right elements.

Merz, in a speech in Mainz, refuted suggestions that European democracy requires saving by the U.S. Instead, he underlined Europe's ability to self-govern and criticized key elements of the strategy as misrepresenting European strengths. The strategy, published last Friday, drew responses from various European leaders.

In discussions with U.S. officials, Merz pointed out Europe's potential role as a valuable partner rather than a dependent ally. This dialogue aligns with broader efforts to bolster Germany's military spending, a move catalyzed by NATO's adjusted defense spending goals under pressure from U.S. President Trump.

(With inputs from agencies.)