German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on Friday that the United States is “withdrawing from Europe” and shifting its attention towards Asian countries, A2 CNN reports.
“I observe that the Americans have been withdrawing from Europe for years and turning towards Asia. This, as they say, ‘pivot to Asia’ is happening, and there are other countries in the world that Americans are interested in and see themselves in fierce competition with China. And that is why they tell us: ‘take care of yourselves,’ and we are doing this,” Merz said in an interview with BBC News.
Europe’s Response to Shifting Dynamics
European leaders have been mobilized to strengthen defenses against Russia, particularly as the Trump administration has made it clear since taking office that the U.S. is no longer willing to be the primary guarantor of security for the old continent.
“So, we have now met three times in a row in Washington, at the G7 in Canada, and a week later at NATO in The Hague. And we are in telephone contact once a week. We are coordinating our efforts. One issue is the war in Ukraine, and the other is our trade debates and tariffs. And we are trying to achieve results. And that is why I am so committed,” Merz added.
Meanwhile, the EU and the U.S. are in negotiations to re-establish balance in their trade relations, with Washington seeking to reduce its trade deficit with Europe in goods.
