German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address escalating disagreements over defense cooperation and trade policy, particularly in light of rising US-EU trade tensions.
Despite warmer personal relations, the so-called 'Franco-German engine' is sputtering as both leaders struggle to present a united front on issues like tariffs, NATO security, and a joint fighter jet project. The two countries have set an August deadline to resolve their fighter jet dispute, aiming to strengthen European defense autonomy. Trade stability and minimizing tariffs remain key goals, but divisions persist over how to respond to potential US tariffs.
The outcome of these talks will significantly impact the EU's ability to act cohesively on global economic and security challenges.
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