German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address growing tensions between their countries, which are considered the driving force of the European Union.
Despite warmer personal relations than in previous administrations, the leaders remain divided on key issues such as defense strategy, leadership of joint military projects, and how to respond to looming US-EU trade disputes and tariffs. Their talks focused on presenting a united front on NATO security and coordinating a European response to potential US trade measures, including a possible $100 billion tariff retaliation. The so-called 'Franco-German engine' is showing signs of strain, with disagreements threatening to undermine EU unity at a critical time.
Both leaders emphasized the need for trade stability and lower tariffs, but significant policy gaps remain.
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