German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Tuesday that parts of the newly published U.S. national security strategy are “unacceptable” from a European perspective, urging greater independence from Washington in security policy.
Speaking at a press conference in Rhineland‑Palatinate, Merz said he was not surprised by the document and acknowledged some aspects as understandable, noting U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s recent criticism that Europe had strayed from “fundamental values” shared with the United States.
Merz, however, rejected the notion that America should “save democracy in Europe.” “If it were to be saved, we would manage that on our own,” he said.
He added that the “America First” principle was evident in the strategy, but cautioned that “‘America alone’ cannot be in your interest. You need partners in the world.”
Several outlets noted that the 30‑page strategy devotes only two and a half pages to Europe. The Financial Times reported the document underscores the ideological gulf that has opened between Washington and its traditional allies.