Germany's new Chancellor calls for stronger European defense to reduce reliance on US support

Germany's incoming Chancellor, Friederich Merz, warns that Europe cannot depend on U.S. security. He emphasizes the need for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities to achieve independence from American support. Merz expresses concern that NATO could be at risk if U.S. President Donald Trump continues to undermine its mutual defense pact. He aims to prioritize European defense efforts. The U.S. currently spends significantly more on defense than all of NATO combined. Merz acknowledges that reducing reliance on the U.S. will take decades and require substantial financial investment.