Germany updates: Merz arrives in Paris on 1st official trip DW 05/07/2025
Briefly

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for increased defense spending among European Union member states during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. Merz highlighted the necessity to close capability gaps and enhance the EU's support for Ukraine. Macron announced the establishment of a Franco-German Defense and Security Council, aimed at coordinating defense efforts and addressing strategic challenges. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to investing in defense and working towards a ceasefire in Ukraine, reflecting a growing collaboration in European security.
"Only in this way can we gradually close our capability gaps and collectively support Ukraine," said Merz during a joint press conference, emphasizing greater defense spending.
Macron announced a Franco-German Defense and Security Council, stating, "We will set up a French-German defence and security council to meet regularly to bring operational responses to our common strategic challenges."
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