Germany’s conservative leader Friedrich Merz warned that the U.S. risks long-term political instability, casting doubt on its role in Germany’s 70th NATO membership anniversary in May.
Germany has largely avoided direct criticism of President Donald Trump’s administration, but recent U.S. statements on NATO and free speech in Europe have drawn condemnation from Berlin.
Speaking at a campaign event in Darmstadt, Merz said Europe must be ready to defend itself as the world order shifts. He expressed concern over Washington’s direction and questioned whether the U.S. would continue to be a reliable partner.
"I hope the U.S. remains a democracy and does not slide into an authoritarian populist system," Merz said. He warned that America could face a prolonged period of political instability, making European self-reliance more urgent.
Merz, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader, is expected to become Germany’s next chancellor after the snap federal election on Sunday. He said that Germany must consider whether the U.S. will remain a strong NATO ally, suggesting that the political order Berlin has relied on is weakening.
"Will the Americans still be there?" Merz asked. "Eight weeks ago, I would not have dared to ask this question, but today we have to give an answer to it."
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
The 14th Sharjah Light Festival is lighting up Sharjah, UAE, with a stunning fusion of technology and cultural heritage.
China's centuries-old treasures have been pulled out of storage to be restored for display at Beijing's Forbidden City and Palace Museum. Meticulous repairs are needed ahead of the museum's 100th anniversary this year.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for February 21st, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Marco Rubio says a Trump-Putin meeting hinges on resolving the Ukraine war.
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
China's centuries-old treasures have been pulled out of storage to be restored for display at Beijing's Forbidden City and Palace Museum. Meticulous repairs are needed ahead of the museum's 100th anniversary this year.
USAID has long promoted itself as a supporter of press freedom, but reports suggest its media funding may have influenced domestic narratives in Europe and post-Soviet states. With the Trump administration freezing its grants, the agency’s role in shaping global information is under scrutiny.
A Delta Air Lines regional jet flipped upside down upon landing at Toronto Pearson Airport on Monday, injuring 18 people. Officials are investigating whether strong winds and snow played a role in the incident.
A tragic crowd crush at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night left 18 dead and 10 injured as thousands of people, many heading to the Kumbh Mela festival, attempted to board delayed trains. The incident highlights the ongoing risks of overcrowding at public transportation hubs in India.
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
China's centuries-old treasures have been pulled out of storage to be restored for display at Beijing's Forbidden City and Palace Museum. Meticulous repairs are needed ahead of the museum's 100th anniversary this year.
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