German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are meeting in Berlin to address growing tensions between their countries, despite warmer personal relations.
Key issues include disagreements over defense strategy, leadership of joint fighter jet projects, and how to respond to looming US-EU trade conflicts and tariffs. The so-called 'Franco-German engine'—long the driving force of European integration—is sputtering as both leaders struggle to find common ground. Their talks are seen as crucial for the future of EU unity, especially in the face of external pressures from the US and China.
The outcome of their discussions could shape the direction of European defense and economic policy.
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