From the Guardian · · 1m 10s
Merz defends Ukraine aid as Germany eyes EU trade fight
German chancellor Friedrich Merz tells parliament that no money for Ukraine diverts from domestic spending, and warns of Russian escalation as the EU prepares to tackle unfair trade practices.
In brief
German chancellor Friedrich Merz tells parliament that no money for Ukraine diverts from domestic spending, and warns of Russian escalation as the EU prepares to tackle unfair trade practices. German chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Ukraine support in parliament, rejecting claims it harms domestic spending, while…
Merz defends Ukraine spending
German chancellor Friedrich Merz told the Bundestag that no money flowing to Ukraine is diverted from social or educational spending in Germany. Not a single euro, he said.
“Not a single euro flowing to Ukraine is being diverted from social or educational spending in our own country. Not a single euro.”
Merz warns of Russian threat
Merz told lawmakers that Russia continues to show willingness to escalate against Ukraine, eastern European neighbours and Germany itself. The danger is very real and concrete.
“The danger is very real and concrete.”
EU prepares trade defence tool
At this week's EU summit in Brussels, the European Council will discuss creating a new trade defence instrument to respond swiftly to attacks on European industries and supply chains.
Commission gets faster trade powers
The new instrument would let the European Commission react rapidly to trade threats without consulting the European Council first. The Council could reverse such moves by qualified majority.
At a glance
German chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Ukraine support in parliament, rejecting claims it harms domestic spending, while warning of Russian escalation and preparing EU trade defences.
