Merz Says Relationship Between U.S. and Germany Is ‘Changing’

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Christopher F. SchuetzeDecember 31, 2025 at 03:08 PM

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medium article 3 min

In his New Year's Eve address on December 31, 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany's long-standing partnership with the United States is changing. He indicated this shift necessitates greater European self-reliance in defense, particularly against threats like Russian aggression. Merz's remarks follow signals from the Trump administration that it no longer considers European defense a core American priority. This shift is evidenced by a recent national security strategy paper advocating for European nations to take "primary responsibility" for their own defense. Germany has already begun preparing for this new era by increasing military spending and addressing security risks like sabotage and cyberattacks.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

European nations 40% United States of America 50% Russia ×260% Europe ×570% Trump administration ×270% United States ×580% Germany ×780% Friedrich Merz ×690%

Keywords

u.s.-germany relationship 90% friedrich merz 80% european defense 80% trans-atlantic military partnership 70% russian aggression 70% national security strategy 60% trump administration 60% military spending 50%