German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address growing divisions between their countries on key issues such as defense, NATO cooperation, and escalating trade tensions with the United States.
Despite warmer personal relations compared to previous leadership, the so-called 'Franco-German engine' is struggling to overcome disagreements on defense strategy and trade policy, particularly as the EU prepares potential $100 billion tariff retaliation against the US. Both leaders emphasized the need for a united European front and trade stability, but significant policy gaps remain. Their talks also included discussions on joint defense projects like the fighter jet initiative, with a goal to resolve leadership disputes by the end of August.
The outcome of these meetings will be crucial for the EU's ability to respond to global geopolitical and economic challenges.
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