Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Merz and Macron Discuss Tariffs, Ukraine, and European Cooperation
Imagine the leaders of Germany and France, the biggest countries in Europe, having dinner to talk about important stuff.
They discussed how to deal with new taxes from the United States, and how to help Ukraine.
They also talked about a new fighter jet project and working together on defense.
Germany and France usually agree on many things, but sometimes they don't.
For example, Germany didn't sign a letter with other countries about the conflict between Israel and Hamas because they had different views about the reasons for the conflict.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted French President Emmanuel Macron for a working dinner in Berlin.
Discussions focused on softening upcoming U.S. tariffs and supporting Ukraine.
The leaders also addressed the FCAS fighter jet project and European defense.
Germany and France aim for a unified front on several issues.
A sticking point is Germany's missing signature on a letter regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- Who
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron.
- What
- Friedrich Merz and Emmanuel Macron met to discuss tariffs, Ukraine, and other issues.
- When
- Wednesday
- Where
- Berlin
- Why
- To address upcoming U.S. tariffs, support Ukraine, and other collaborative issues.
Germany
France and other Western Countries
Israel-Hamas Conflict
Germany
Germany did not sign the letter calling for an immediate end to the war in Israel.
France and other Western Countries
The letter was signed by France and 27 other Western countries, calling for Israel to immediately end the war.
- Meeting Location
- Berlin, Germany
- Participants
- Friedrich Merz and Emmanuel Macron
- Primary Topics
- U.S. Tariffs, Ukraine, FCAS Project
- Key Agenda Item
- Softening incoming U.S. tariffs