German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reacted to US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, saying that Europe is ready to defend itself if necessary.
Elchi.az reports that Merz stated in his speech in the Federal Parliament that Europe must stay together.
He said that Europe showed its ability to act quickly last week, and noted that the European Union (EU) Leaders’ Summit in Brussels quickly came together and agreed that they would not be intimidated by tariff threats.
Merz said that they prevented the US President’s new tariff threats by demonstrating unity and determination, and added: “If anyone in the world thinks that tariffs should be used as a political tool against Europe, they should know, and now they know, that we are ready and able to defend ourselves if necessary.”
Claiming that the transatlantic alliance is a valuable asset, Merz warned that these alliances, which have been formed for years, should not be easily jeopardized.
German Chancellor Merz, without naming him, criticized Donald Trump for his statement in an interview with Fox News that the US never needed NATO troops in Afghanistan and that allied forces stayed away from the front lines during the conflict.
Merz stated that NATO went to Afghanistan with the US within the framework of “Operation Enduring Freedom” after September 11, 2001, and ensured stability and security in the country for many years. He added: “During our nearly 20-year mission in Afghanistan, 59 German soldiers lost their lives. More than 100 were injured in battles and attacks – some seriously. We will not allow this mission, which we carried out in the interests of our ally, the USA, to be diminished and devalued today.”
Merz emphasized the value of the service provided by German soldiers, saying that it represents freedom and peace in the world, and that the German government stands behind its soldiers.
However, Merz emphasized that the value of the NATO alliance should not be overlooked, noting that the trust developed within NATO for more than 70 years remains the best guarantee of freedom, peace and security for all parties on both sides of the Atlantic.
Therefore, Merz emphasized that Europeans want to protect NATO and strengthen it within Europe.
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