Merz: Ankara Summit to Make NATO ‘More European’ to Keep US in Alliance

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Friday that an upcoming summit in Ankara will bring a “new spirit” to NATO. Speaking ahead of the meeting, Merz explained that European allies are increasing their defense spending. This shift, he argued, will make the alliance “more European” while preserving its transatlantic core. The goal, according to Merz, is to strengthen NATO’s European pillar so the United States remains committed to the alliance.