New German Chancellor Predicts End of NATO 'in Current Form': 'Trump Administration Indifferent to Fate of Europe'

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become chancellor, is signaling a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations, the BBC reported on Monday. The Christian Democrat on Sunday cast doubt on NATO's future and called on Europe to rapidly strengthen its independent defense capabilities.

“I would never have thought I would say this on a TV show, but (…) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) does not care about the fate of Europe,” Merz said on Sunday during a TV debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also questioned whether at the NATO summit in June “we will still be talking about NATO in its current form, or we will have to build independent European defense capabilities much faster.” “We are under enormous pressure from both sides (Russia and the U.S.), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe,” he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words spoken by Merz, who has so far been seen as a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change in the EU-US relationship. "This tone of speech (…) would have been unthinkable a few months ago. This is a +seismic+ change. (…) What we are currently experiencing in the context of transatlantic relations is unprecedented in post-war Europe," he adds.

The BBC recalls that Germany is already second – after the US – in terms of military aid to Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also to strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

The Christian Democrats have so far been skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission, the portal notes. At the same time, "taking into account Germany's approach so far, which has delayed at every stage of providing support to Ukraine, and yet has provided it with more aid than any of its European neighbors, 'no' does not mean 'no' forever," it emphasizes.

"Merz will have to face reality, however: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in trouble," the BBC notes. In addition, as the station reminds us, the Christian Democratic leader will first have to reach an agreement on this matter with future coalition partners and European allies, who may be reluctant to take a confrontational approach to the US.

"The election results are a harbinger of stronger leadership from Berlin. But is the rest of Europe ready for this?" the portal asks. (PAP)

mws/ mms/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/

The leader of CDU Friedrich Merz, who will probably become a chancellor, signals a revolutionary change in transatlantic relations - writes the BBC television portal on Monday.

"I would never have thought that I will say it on a television program, but (...) it is clear that this administration (Donald Trump) is indifferent to the fate of Europe," said Merz on Sunday during the television debate.

He added that his priority would be to strengthen Europe's combat capabilities as quickly as possible, "so that we can gradually achieve true independence from the US."

Merz also doubted whether during the NATO summit in June "we will continue to talk about NATO in its current form, or whether we will have to build the independent defense abilities of Europe much faster" "We are under huge pressure from both sides (Russia and the USA), so my main goal is to build unity in Europe," he added.

The BBC emphasizes that the words of Merza, who was previously perceived as an ardent supporter of the transatlantic alliance, signal a huge change on the EU-US line. Europe " - he adds.

The BBC reminds that Germany is already taking a second - after the USA - a place in terms of military assistance for Ukraine, and Merz wants not only to continue this line, but also strengthen Berlin's leadership in the field of defense.

As the British television website recalls, Merz recently suggested that he would like to create a European nuclear umbrella to prepare for the possible withdrawal of US security guarantees for Europe.

Until now, Chadek was skeptical about the idea of ​​sending soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peace mission - notes the portal at the same time "taking into account the current approach of Germany, which delayed at every stage of providing support for Ukraine, and yet they provided her with more help than any of the European neighbors, + not + not + not + forever" - he emphasizes.

"Merz, however, will have to confront reality: his plans require a lot of money, and the German economy is in the hole," notes the BBC - as TV reminds.

"The results of the election are the trailer of Berlin's stronger leadership.

MWS/ MMS/