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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Jabed Ahmed

Merz admits Europeans have been ‘free-riders’ on defence

  • German chancellor Friedrich Merz admitted that Europe has historically underfunded its own security, relying heavily on the United States.
  • During his first visit to London as chancellor, Mr Merz signed the "historic" Kensington treaty with UK prime minister Keir Starmer, aiming to deepen defence cooperation and boost economic growth.
  • Mr Merz stated that Germany would do "whatever it takes" to increase its defence spending and expand the size of its army.
  • He said that he and the US president are "on the same page" regarding Ukraine, coordinating efforts to end the war and discussing trade debates and tariffs.
  • The chancellor and Sir Keir discussed boosting European support for Ukraine, with Merz indicating that Ukraine would soon receive substantial additional support in long-range strike systems.

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