Story perspectives

France, Germany Form Deterrence Group, China Roadmap, Joint Drills

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Germany and France have formed a strategic steering group to coordinate deterrence and develop a joint China trade roadmap.
Reflecting EU divisions—France pushes a tougher stance while Germany stays cautious—the group aims to finish the roadmap by September.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany will join a French nuclear exercise in late 2026.
Germany will also join a French-initiated Ukraine manoeuvre in autumn under the Coalition of the Willing.

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Story summary

Germany and France have formed a strategic steering group to coordinate deterrence and develop a joint China trade roadmap.
Reflecting EU divisions—France pushes a tougher stance while Germany stays cautious—the group aims to finish the roadmap by September.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany will join a French nuclear exercise in late 2026.
Germany will also join a French-initiated Ukraine manoeuvre in autumn under the Coalition of the Willing.