Merz says parts of US security strategy unacceptable for Europe

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Tuesday that parts of the newly published U.S. national security strategy are "unacceptable" from a European perspective, stressing that Germany and Europe must be more independent from the United States in terms of security policy, reported Xinhua.

Merz made the remarks during a press conference in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

He said he was "not surprised" by the document and acknowledged some aspects as comprehensible, given that U.S. Vice President JD Vance has accused Europe of straying from "fundamental values" shared with the United States at the Munich Security Conference in February.

However, Merz also voiced his disagreement with part of the U.S. strategy. "I see no necessity for the Americans now wanting to save democracy in Europe," Merz said. "If it were to be saved, we would manage that on our own."

He noted that the "America First" principle is particularly evident in the strategy. While expressing acceptance of "America first," Merz stressed that "'America alone' cannot be in your (the U.S.) interest. You need partners in the world."

Several U.S. and European news outlets have pointed out that in the 30-page U.S. National Security Strategy, barely two and a half pages are devoted to Europe. The Financial Times reported that the document "highlights the ideological gulf that has opened up between Washington and its traditional allies."