Germany Signals Weaker US Commitment and Calls for Stronger European Self-Reliance

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Germany would "do everything" to keep the United States closely engaged with Europe but cautioned that Washington’s involvement is likely to diminish. Speaking on 3 July, Merz acknowledged “justified doubts” about whether trans-Atlantic ties will remain as strong as in the past and argued that “now is the time for Europe” to bolster its own capabilities. Echoing that view, Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said Germany must not rely solely on the United States and should strengthen and diversify its trade relationships. Klingbeil added that Berlin’s top economic priority is to return the country to a growth path, which will require higher investment, structural reforms, budget consolidation and a concerted push to cut unnecessary bureaucracy.