German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed concerns over the future of transatlantic relations, stating he will do everything possible to maintain strong ties with the United States but is preparing for a reduced American engagement in Europe. Merz acknowledged justified doubts about whether the US-Europe relationship will remain as robust as before, emphasizing that now is the time for Europe to take greater responsibility. Additionally, Merz declared that all diplomatic means to resolve the ongoing war in Ukraine have been exhausted, indicating that peaceful solutions are no longer available.