Germany's Merz Aims for 'Independence' from U.S. and Expresses Concerns About NATO's Future

Friedrich Merz, the probable next Chancellor of Germany, has expressed his aim to secure "independence from the USA" and bolster Europe following his election victory. Merz has openly criticized US President Donald Trump, casting doubt on NATO's future and advocating for a self-reliant European defense capability. His conservative party secured 28.6% of the votes, with the far-right Alternative for Germany achieving a historic 20.8% result. Merz now confronts intricate coalition talks, where he must collaborate with the center-left Social Democrats, having ruled out the AfD due to its extremist stance.