German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address growing tensions between their countries over defense cooperation and looming trade disputes with the US.
Despite warmer personal relations than in previous years, the leaders struggled to overcome deep divisions on issues like NATO strategy, leadership of a joint fighter jet project, and how to respond to potential US tariffs. Both leaders emphasized the need for European unity and trade stability, but their talks highlighted the challenges facing the so-called 'Franco-German engine' that has long driven EU policy. The outcome of their discussions will be crucial for shaping Europe's response to global economic and security pressures.
The meeting underscores the fragile state of Franco-German cooperation at a critical moment for the EU.
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