German Chancellor Merz plans to convene leaders from the E5 — Germany, France, the UK, Italy and Poland — in Berlin later this month to draft measures ahead of the July NATO summit aimed at improving relations with US President Trump and demonstrating European allies’ efforts to strengthen their own defense responsibilities. Merz is also expected to invite NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to the meeting.

2026-06-01

German Chancellor Merz plans to convene leaders from the E5 — Germany, France, the UK, Italy and Poland — in Berlin later this month to draft measures ahead of the July NATO summit aimed at improving relations with US President Trump and demonstrating European allies’ efforts to strengthen their own defense responsibilities. Merz is also expected to invite NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to the meeting.