Friedrich Merz, Germany's chancellor-in-waiting after his Christian Democratic Union party's electoral victory, has called for Europe to achieve military independence from the United States, marking a dramatic shift in transatlantic relations.
Speaking during a post-election debate, Merz declared his "absolute priority" would be strengthening Europe to reduce dependence on US security guarantees, following recent statements from the Trump administration suggesting potential changes to long-standing defense commitments.
"I never thought I would have to say something like this on a television program," Merz stated. "But after Donald Trump's statements last week, it is clear that the Americans, at least this administration, are largely indifferent to the fate of Europe."
The CDU emerged as Germany's largest party with 28.6% of the vote, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured second place with its strongest showing since World War II at 20.8%. The Social Democratic Party of incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz fell to third position.
Merz questioned NATO's future ahead of its June summit, suggesting Europe may need to establish its own independent defense capability sooner than anticipated. This represents a remarkable stance from Merz, who has historically been a strong supporter of US-European ties.
The election results and Merz's comments come amid growing European concerns about US commitment to the continent's security, particularly after recent Trump administration statements calling for European allies to increase their NATO investments and take greater responsibility for their defense.
Germany currently hosts approximately 35,000 US troops, which have long been viewed as central to the country's security framework. Any reduction in US military presence could significantly impact Germany's defense posture.
As Merz prepares to form a coalition government, he faces the challenge of implementing his vision for European military independence while managing a depressed German economy and complex negotiations with potential coalition partners who may hold different views on relations with the US.