Germany Signals Shift in Transatlantic Relations.

Germany’s new leader, Friedrich Merz, has declared a major shift in foreign policy, questioning NATO’s future and calling for Europe to strengthen its own defenses. Speaking after his election victory, Merz likened Donald Trump’s America to Russia, warning that Europe is being squeezed between the two powers.

With Trump threatening to withdraw US security guarantees, Germany fears instability. Merz has suggested a European nuclear umbrella with France and the UK, but challenges remain—Germany’s military is underfunded, and its economy is struggling. As European leaders visit Washington, Berlin is eager to reassert its influence on the global stage.