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Germany’s newly appointed Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has called on all European Union (EU) member states to increase their defence spending to address existing capability gaps and maintain collective support for Ukraine.
Speaking during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday, Merz stressed the importance of enhanced cooperation within the EU’s defence framework.
“Only in this way can we gradually close our capability gaps and collectively support Ukraine,” Merz stated, underlining the urgency of strengthening the bloc’s military readiness and unity in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges.
The meeting marked a symbolic commitment to revitalising Franco-German relations and fostering a renewed European agenda centred on security and strategic cooperation.
Both leaders pledged to work closely in shaping the future of Europe, particularly in light of the war in Ukraine and the growing need for a coordinated defence policy.
The Paris visit was Merz’s first official foreign engagement since assuming office, with a follow-up trip to Poland scheduled as part of his diplomatic efforts to reinforce ties with key European allies.
His early emphasis on defence spending signals a clear shift in Germany’s posture toward a more assertive and unified European defence strategy.
