German Chancellor Merz rejected Trump's criticism of Europe, urging greater European defense independence amid U.S. policy shifts.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the Trump administration's National Security Strategy, calling its criticism of European democracies "unacceptable" and rejecting the idea that the U.S. must rescue Europe's democracy. He emphasized the urgent need for Europe to achieve greater strategic independence, especially in defense, citing years of underinvestment and the ongoing threat from Russia. While affirming Germany’s commitment to NATO and transatlantic cooperation, Merz stressed that Europe must strengthen its own military, technological, and energy capabilities. His remarks highlight growing European concern over shifting U.S. priorities and the push for greater autonomy in security policy.