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Merz Advocates Stronger NATO, Defends Global Trade Order

1/29/2026

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Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor, stated on January 29, 2026, that the rules-based global order remains vital.
He called for a stronger NATO in Europe and for cooperation with the United States.
Merz said Europe will not be intimidated by tariff threats, citing U.S. President Donald Trump’s retreat from using tariffs regarding Greenland.
He noted a world increasingly dominated by great powers and expressed optimism about rules-based trade and international cooperation.

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Story summary

Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor, stated on January 29, 2026, that the rules-based global order remains vital.
He called for a stronger NATO in Europe and for cooperation with the United States.
Merz said Europe will not be intimidated by tariff threats, citing U.S. President Donald Trump’s retreat from using tariffs regarding Greenland.
He noted a world increasingly dominated by great powers and expressed optimism about rules-based trade and international cooperation.