Germany’s Merz: Europe Was Free‑Riding on US Defense
In a BBC Today Programme interview, Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged that Europe had historically "free‑ridden" on U.S. defense guarantees. He stressed that Washington’s criticism was fair and that European nations must now contribute more to their own security. “We know we have to do more on our own,” Merz said. “We have been free‑riders in the past … they’re asking us to do more and we are doing more.” Why This Matters Europe has long depended on the U.S. for NATO and defense protection. Merz’s remarks signal a policy pivot: greater European self-reliance in security. The shift comes amid rising tensions over Donald Trump's threatened tariffs on EU goods and concerns about U.S. commitment under his administration. Key Themes from the Interview Weekly coordination: Merz and Trump now speak once a week, coordinating efforts on Ukraine and trade. Defense spending […]
