Germany's likely next Chancellor Friedrich Merz questioned on Sunday whether NATO would remain in its "current form" by June in light of comments by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, and said Europe must quickly establish an independent defence capability.

Germany's likely next Chancellor Friedrich Merz questioned on Sunday whether NATO would remain in its "current form" by June in light of the comments by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, and that Europe must quickly establish an independent defence capability.

Germanys probable next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has raised concerns over NATOs stability following U.S. President Donald Trumps recent remarks urging Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense.

Frontrunner for chancellor expresses doubts over US Nato commitments, with the far-right AfD set for its best result

As the war enters its fourth year, the U.S. is no longer aligned with the Ukrainian cause or with its NATO allies, and European leaders are bracing for a post-U.S. alliance. Driving the news: Friedrich Merz,

Germany's conservative leader Friedrich Merz said on Thursday the U.S. was at risk of sliding into longer-term authoritarian instability, casting doubt on Washington's presence for Germany’s 70th NATO membership anniversary in May.

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Germany’s Friedrich Merz takes swipe at Trump and calls for ‘independence from the USA’ - Germany’s likely next chancellor has also questioned whether NATO will continue to exist

Europe will need to defend itself and can no longer rely on the US, says man likely to become next German chancellor

Such talks often drag on for weeks if not months in Germany, but Merz is in a hurry to reach a deal with Europe's biggest economy facing economic malaise and an upheaval in relations with the U.S.

The likely next chancellor is unpopular, and his country’s economy has stalled. But his penchant for risks could help lead to a European showdown with President Trump.

CDU leader questions whether Nato will remain in its ‘current form’ by June as he hits out at Donald Trump Friedrich Merz, who is poised to become Germany’s next chancellor, has warned Nato ...