German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address mounting tensions within their partnership, focusing on defense cooperation and escalating EU-US trade disputes.
Despite warmer personal relations, the leaders struggled to bridge divides over a joint fighter jet project and how to respond to potential US tariffs. Both sides agreed to set an August deadline to resolve their differences on the fighter jet initiative. The talks underscore the challenges facing the Franco-German 'engine' at the heart of the EU, as Europe seeks unity amid global economic and security pressures.
Their ability to present a united front is seen as crucial for the EU's response to international challenges.
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