Germany sees trade deal as a defeat

German economists view the EU-US trade deal as a defeat, with some calling it a humiliation for Europe. The agreement on import tariffs is seen as a setback, especially as Germany's economy contracted slightly last quarter. Experts suggest the EU's economic and security reliance on the US contributed to the outcome. Chancellor Merz acknowledges potential "serious damage" to the German economy but deems the deal the best achievable outcome, halving proposed tariffs. Uncertainty remains regarding specific tariffs on steel, aluminum, and pharmaceuticals.