Merz to Trump: 'America Alone' Is Not in Your Interest, Strategy 'Unacceptable'

WISE NEWS PRESS / MAINZ, GERMANY — DEC. 10, 2025

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sharply criticized the Trump administration's new National Security Strategy, labeling parts of it "unacceptable" for Europe and warning Washington against adopting an isolationist foreign policy.

Speaking at a press conference in Mainz, Merz addressed the shifting dynamics of the transatlantic alliance, emphasizing that while an "America First" approach is understandable from a US perspective, an "America Alone" doctrine would ultimately fail to serve American interests. The Chancellor's remarks underscore the growing realization in Berlin that Europe must urgently accelerate its independence in security policy.

'Unacceptable' Elements for Europe

Merz noted that the White House's newly released strategy document largely mirrors the rhetoric used by US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference in February. "Some elements it contains are understandable, but others are unacceptable to us from a European perspective," Merz stated.

The Chancellor adopted a sarcastic tone regarding the document's suggestion that the US needs to intervene to protect European democracy.

"The idea that Americans now want to save democracy in Europe... I see no such need," Merz said. "But if it had to be saved, we would have managed that ourselves".

'America Alone' Warning

Merz argued that the document confirms his long-held view that Germany and Europe must become much more independent from the US in terms of security policy. However, he stressed that he is actively conveying a message to the Trump administration that isolationism is strategically flawed.

"‘America First’ is well and good, but ‘America Alone’ cannot be in your interest," Merz said, recounting his message to US officials. "You need partners in the world, too".

To maintain stability, Merz urged German state premiers and local politicians to maintain close dialogue with US troops stationed in Germany, emphasizing shared goals of freedom, security, and peace. He expressed hope that the US would eventually recognize the necessity of this partnership for its own interests, while acknowledging that Germany must mentally and physically prepare for a scenario where it acts independently.

Invitation to Trump Remains Open

Despite the strategic disagreements, Merz confirmed that he is trying to prevent a complete severing of ties with President Donald Trump. When asked if his previous invitation for Trump to visit Germany was still valid, Merz replied, "The invitation is, of course, valid".

Merz had previously gifted Trump a framed English translation of his grandfather Friedrich Trump's birth certificate from a German church archive.

"We will visit his hometown together," Merz said, noting that Trump was moved by the gift and the shared name. "He said he wants to make this visit next year... Let's see if we can make it happen".

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