Merz and Macron Meet: High-Stakes Dialogue on Tariffs and Defense

On Wednesday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will host French President Emmanuel Macron in Berlin for talks that emphasize Europe's unified stance on U.S. tariffs and support for Ukraine. The leaders will meet at Villa Borsig, symbolizing a rare convergence of the continent's largest economic powers just before a critical deadline in trade negotiations set by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Merz's chief of staff, Thorsten Frei, told ZDF that tariffs and Ukraine's security are vital issues on the agenda. "A full agenda reflects the strength of German-French relations," Frei stated, noting additional topics would be covered. Merz aims to improve ties with France, critiquing his predecessor Scholz for neglecting this partnership.

However, challenges persist. Merz has been critical of Israel, and Germany's absence from a Western countries' letter to Israel highlights unresolved differences. Discussions will likely continue on projects like the FCAS fighter jet, now complicated by Airbus's growing dissatisfaction.

(With inputs from agencies.)