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."
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Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas met Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Wednesday for talks focused on Gaza, Palestinian statehood and regional security.
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