Merz y Macron revitalizan el atascado motor franco-alemán | Internacional | EL PAÍS

Franco-German Relations Revitalized

The article reports on a dinner between the future German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, and French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting a renewed vigor in the Franco-German relationship. This comes at a time of significant geopolitical shifts, including the return of Donald Trump to the White House and its impact on transatlantic relations.

Key Factors

• Merz's victory in the German elections and his more pro-French stance compared to his predecessor, Olaf Scholz.
• Trump's return to the White House, disrupting transatlantic relations and prompting Germany to seek closer ties with France.
• Macron's past proposals for increased European sovereignty and the potential for a French nuclear umbrella to protect Germany, which have found more acceptance under Merz.

Despite this renewed partnership, challenges remain. These include lingering French reservations towards Germany, questions over the intended use of Germany's increased defense spending, and Germany's continued reliance on the transatlantic relationship, even under the Trump administration. The shifting geopolitical landscape, including the increased importance of Eastern European countries like Poland, presents additional complexities.

Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

The article suggests that while the Franco-German partnership is crucial, the center of gravity in Europe is shifting eastward, and countries like Poland and the Baltic states are gaining more influence. This evolving situation adds another layer to the dynamics between France and Germany.