Parts of US Security Strategy Viewed as 'Unacceptable' in Europe, States Germany’s Merz
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz addressed recent U.S. policy announcements, including its updated security strategy, during a visit to Rhineland-Palatinate. He remarked that the strategy’s content aligned with expectations, referencing Vice President JD Vance’s speech in Munich earlier this year.
“Certain aspects are reasonable, others are justifiable, and some are utterly unacceptable from a European standpoint,” Merz stated. He emphasized that American efforts to “rescue democracy in Europe” were unnecessary.
The document reinforced his belief that the EU must pursue greater autonomy from the U.S. in security matters, Merz added. He also mentioned that former U.S. President Donald Trump might visit Germany in 2026, noting an invitation had been warmly received though no specific date was confirmed.
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EU’s Kallas Expresses Disappointment Over UK Defense Fund Exclusion
EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas described the absence of a UK-EU agreement on participation in the SAFE defense initiative as regrettable.
“I was not involved in negotiations, but the outcome is disappointing,” she told lawmakers, clarifying that the UK could still collaborate bilaterally with EU member states. “Thirty-five percent of such agreements allow non-EU partners, so cooperation remains possible.”
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Kallas Cautions Against Hasty Ukraine Negotiations
Kallas also warned European nations to avoid “falling into Russian traps” by pursuing rushed peace talks amid U.S. pressure. She accused Moscow of feigning interest in diplomacy while pressing Ukraine to concede without reciprocal Russian commitments.
“We must resist setting precedents where Ukraine makes sacrifices and Russia makes none,” she asserted, reiterating the EU’s stance that talks require clear guarantees from Russia first.
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