Germany's Friedrich Merz aims to restore EU leadership as chancellor

Germany's political landscape is shifting as Friedrich Merz prepares to become the next chancellor. He aims to restore Germany's leadership in the EU, which has been weakened under Olaf Scholz due to internal conflicts and strained relationships with France and Poland. Merz has committed to increasing military support for Ukraine, including sending long-range missiles. He faces pressure to boost Germany's defense spending to 3% of GDP and to reconsider the country's stance on eurobonds for defense funding. Merz's leadership style is expected to differ from Scholz's, potentially improving relations with European leaders. However, challenges remain, particularly with the changing dynamics of U.S. politics under Donald Trump, which may complicate Germany's foreign policy.