In a pre-EU Summit interview, Manfred Weber, the European People’s Party (EPP) Chief, emphasized the need for Europeans to take greater responsibility in security policy.
Weber, speaking to Politico, expressed his desire for a strong transatlantic partnership, but also for the EU to develop its own military capabilities, stating, “I want Europe to be a military power.” He expressed hope for a new direction in the EU, citing the upcoming summit with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, saying, “I would like to start with Berlin being back, with Friedrich Merz showing clear leadership and Europe waiting for German leadership.”
Weber also defended Merz’s recent comments, which some have criticized as divisive, saying, “One must remember that the Iran has missiles that can reach Europe, not America. Therefore, I think they are doing a job for us.