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Chancellor Merz Calls for Stronger Europe Amid U.S. Trust Crisis

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Europe to grow stronger to rebuild trust with the United States during the Munich Security Conference on February 13, 2026.
He warned the international order is collapsing and urged Europe to bolster NATO defenses.
Merz's remarks contrasted with United States Vice President JD Vance's criticisms of European allies.
A YouGov poll shows Europe’s favorability toward the United States at its lowest since 2016.
Merz discussed a joint European nuclear deterrent with French President Emmanuel Macron.

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Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Europe to grow stronger to rebuild trust with the United States during the Munich Security Conference on February 13, 2026.
He warned the international order is collapsing and urged Europe to bolster NATO defenses.
Merz's remarks contrasted with United States Vice President JD Vance's criticisms of European allies.
A YouGov poll shows Europe’s favorability toward the United States at its lowest since 2016.
Merz discussed a joint European nuclear deterrent with French President Emmanuel Macron.