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.

Merz expressed concern over changing relations with Washington under the Trump administration, emphasizing the need for gradual independence from the U.S.

Germany's conservative CDU leader Friedrich Merz welcomed on Monday the interest shown by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in improving ties with Europe, adding that the two had spoken several time in the last few weeks.