Europe Rethinks Security as US Relations Fray Under Trump Administration

Germany's incoming leader Friedrich Merz advocates for European defense independence, while divisions emerge on NATO's future and nuclear deterrence.

Friedrich Merz, Germany's chancellor-elect, has called for Europe to reduce reliance on the United States for security, marking a historic shift in German foreign policy.
Merz's proposal includes exploring a shared European nuclear deterrent and increased defense spending, with support from France and the UK but resistance from Poland and Italy.
European leaders are concerned about the US's strained relations with NATO allies and speculation over potential American troop withdrawals from Eastern Europe.
French President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated his offer to extend France's nuclear umbrella to other European nations, though the idea faces internal European opposition.
The UK's 'bomb bank' proposal, which aims to mobilize private investment for military funding, has been praised as a constructive step toward European defense cooperation.