Merz hits back at Trump for ridiculing Germany’s defence spending drive

AI Summary

Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended the country's defense spending against criticism from US President Donald Trump. As NATO leaders prepare to meet in Ankara, European nations emphasize their growing commitment to continental defense by increasing their defense budgets.

Germany ⁠does not have to shy ⁠away from talking up its record on defence spending, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday, when asked about US President Donald Trump calling Germany’s past efforts “ridiculous”. The issue of defence spending has loomed large as Nato leaders prepare to gather ‌next week in Ankara, where Europeans aim to set aside strife with Trump over Iran and Greenland and show they are stepping up to defend the continent. “Germany is doubling its defence budget within four...