Merz assures Trump of Germany's increased defense role amid NATO criticism

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged to U.S. President Donald Trump that Germany will assume greater responsibility within the Euro-Atlantic sphere. The assurance came during a phone call between the two leaders, who also coordinated on the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara. This discussion occurred amidst Trump's repeated criticisms of Germany's defense spending and contributions to the alliance.

Regierungssprecher Stefan Kornelius stated that Merz emphasized Germany's growing role in ensuring security in the region, suggesting that NATO can "become more European to remain transatlantic." The leaders agreed to continue their dialogue in Ankara. Trump had publicly labeled German defense spending as "ridiculous" and criticized other allies like Britain and Italy, citing the disproportionately high U.S. defense expenditures within NATO.

Merz had previously defended Germany's commitment, noting the doubling of its defense budget over four years. He asserted that this represents the "greatest effort" Germany has ever made to bolster its defense capabilities, stating, "We don't need to hide from anyone." The phone call also served as an occasion for Merz to extend congratulations to Trump on the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States' independence.