Merz announces talks on nuclear umbrella

"I see a fundamental need for us to discuss with France and the UK the question of how we can jointly provide such a deterrent response in the future," said the Christian Democrat politician during his inaugural visit to French President Emmanuel Macron. This was expressly meant as a supplement to the American nuclear shield.

Merz announced "3 plus 3" talks between the heads of government, foreign and defense ministers in the coming weeks and months as the format in which these and other defence and security policy issues are to be discussed with France. This would initially be a discussion. There are "no plans to replace" the protection provided by the USA.

Merz left for Paris 17 hours after his appointment. In view of the radical change of course in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, the German Chancellor and French President Macron are aiming to strengthen the Franco-German axis in Europe in concrete terms.