Macron-Merz to tackle NATO tensions and EU‑US trade dispute

Hearts of Europe Realign as Macron & Merz Meet in Berlin

Berlin is set to host a pivotal briefing between France’s President Emmanuel Macron and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday. The dialogue will chart European security, the US‑EU trade impasse, and other salient matters.

Franco‑German Resurgence

• Both leaders have intensified the bilateral partnership since they assumed office in May.
• The meeting underscores a renewed Franco‑German “couple” working at the union’s core.
• Paris and Berlin, alongside London and Warsaw, have jointly pushed for stronger defense and Ukraine support.

Ukraine‑Energy Debate

Paris is prepared to dispatch peacekeeping troops to monitor a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, whereas Berlin has so far denied plans to contribute.

US Trade Tension

After Trump threatened 30‑percent tariffs on the EU if a deal isn’t reached by August 1, Macron & Merz are set to confront the dispute. Merz urged a “fair and reliable agreement with low tariff rates” that would strengthen the transatlantic market.

Defense Project, Energy & Trade Oddities

• The joint defense project with Spain remains contentious, with Merz objecting to a greater French leadership role.
• German champion Eric Trappier from Dassault questioned the triple‑leadership model, questioning its viability.
• France wants Berlin to adopt “technology neutrality” and regard nuclear energy as climate‑friendly. Merz’s CDU/CSU may lean in that direction.

Both leaders pledged a “restart in energy policy” and “equal treatment for all low‑emission energies” at the EU level.

• Germany backs an EU‑Mercosur trade deal, but France fears a damaging impact on its farming sector. A “robust safeguard clause for agriculture” is emerging as a potential compromise.

Meeting Programme

Merz welcomes Macron at 6:30 pm (1630 GMT) at Villa Borsig, Berlin’s historic site. The agenda includes:

• Press statements without journalist queries
• Jazz performance
• Working dinner