Europe has been ‘free-riding’ on US security, says Merz
Merz admits Europeans have been ‘free-riders’ on defence
- German chancellor Friedrich Merz admitted that Europe has historically underfunded its own security, relying heavily on the United States.
- During his first visit to London as chancellor, Mr Merz signed the "historic" Kensington treaty with UK prime minister Keir Starmer, aiming to deepen defence cooperation and boost economic growth.
- Mr Merz stated that Germany would do "whatever it takes" to increase its defence spending and expand the size of its army.
- He said that he and the US president are "on the same page" regarding Ukraine, coordinating efforts to end the war and discussing trade debates and tariffs.
- The chancellor and Sir Keir discussed boosting European support for Ukraine, with Merz indicating that Ukraine would soon receive substantial additional support in long-range strike systems.