German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address escalating tensions over EU-US trade relations, defense cooperation, and NATO strategy. Despite warmer personal relations between the leaders, longstanding disagreements over tariffs, trade retaliation, and joint defense projects—such as the fighter jet initiative—have stalled progress. Both leaders emphasized the need for a united European front and trade stability, but divisions remain on how to respond to potential US tariffs and coordinate defense efforts. The so-called 'Franco-German engine' is showing signs of strain, raising concerns about Europe's ability to act cohesively on the global stage. Their talks are seen as critical for shaping the EU's response to external pressures and maintaining its influence.
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