France and Germany launch new security council to bolster defence cooperation

Macron and Merz announce a new security framework aimed at addressing European strategic challenges and enhancing military collaboration.

Germany’s newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz and France’s President Emmanuel Macron shake hands at the conclusion of a joint press conference after their meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, on May 7, 2025. Photo by Ludovic Marin/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

On Wednesday, French President Emmanuel Macron and newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the formation of a joint security council between their two countries, underscoring their commitment to European defence amid rising threats, particularly from Russia. The announcement came during Merz's first state visit to Paris, marking a pivotal moment in Franco-German relations and the broader European security landscape.

The two leaders, meeting at the Élysée Palace, highlighted the growing need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defence in the face of an increasingly unpredictable geopolitical environment. Macron emphasized the importance of closer military collaboration between France and Germany, noting that their combined efforts could significantly enhance European security and sovereignty.

“We are establishing a Franco-German defence and security council that will meet regularly to tackle our shared strategic challenges,” Macron stated. He pointed out that the rising threat posed by Russia, alongside concerns over EU sovereignty and competitiveness, would be central to the new council’s mandate. The initiative is part of a broader effort to shift the focus towards Europe’s self-sufficiency in defence, especially given the unpredictability of the US administration under President Donald Trump.

Strengthening Franco-German ties under Merz’s leadership

Merz, who assumed office as Germany’s chancellor just one day earlier, made Paris his first destination, signaling the importance he places on revitalizing relations with France. The two leaders have forged a strong personal connection over the past few years, with Merz praising the “profound attachment” between their nations and the mutual understanding they share on critical European issues.

The French president and the German chancellor have already met several times in recent months, discussing pressing matters such as the US’s trade policies under Trump, the geopolitical instability surrounding Russia, and the future of Ukraine. Merz reiterated the importance of European defence spending and underscored the necessity for all EU member states to contribute more effectively to their own military capabilities.

The German leader also acknowledged that the war in Ukraine would not end without continued US political and military involvement, but he warned that Europe must take a more active role in securing its own future. “The Europeans cannot replace the US,” Merz noted, emphasizing that while European efforts were vital, they could not fully substitute American support.

The future of nuclear defence and NATO

In addition to their discussions on military spending, Macron and Merz touched on the subject of France’s nuclear deterrent, considering whether to extend its protective umbrella to other European countries. However, the two leaders were quick to clarify that such an initiative would complement, not replace, NATO’s existing security guarantees provided by the US.

Macron reiterated the importance of maintaining historical alliances while also ensuring Europe can better organize its own defence. “We, Europeans, must organize ourselves better, but this is not about questioning our historical alliances,” he said, stressing the need for a balanced approach that would enhance Europe’s autonomy without undermining its longstanding security relationships.

The discussions between the two leaders highlighted their shared vision of a more independent Europe, one that can defend its values and interests without relying too heavily on external powers. This vision aligns with Merz’s ambition to reinvigorate the European Union’s role in global security and defence.

A new era of Franco-German cooperation

The arrival of Merz as chancellor has been welcomed in Paris, with French officials hopeful that his leadership will breathe new life into key European initiatives. One such initiative is strengthening the EU’s defence capabilities, with both Macron and Merz eager to accelerate progress on this front. Their personal political alignment is seen as a positive shift after the less fluid relations with Merz’s predecessor, Olaf Scholz, who, according to some French officials, did not invest enough in cultivating a close relationship with Paris.

“This is a good opportunity for both France and Germany, and for Europe more broadly, to gain momentum on key priorities,” said Benjamin Haddad, France’s Europe minister. He noted that the new German government shares France’s aspirations for a stronger, more independent European defence framework, as well as a more competitive Eurozone.

The shift in Franco-German dynamics under Merz’s leadership is also being felt in other areas, including immigration, trade, and energy. Germany’s previous stance on these issues often conflicted with France’s position, particularly regarding the Mercosur trade agreement and the classification of nuclear energy within EU green regulations. However, French officials are optimistic that these differences can be addressed over time, with Merz’s arrival signaling a return to more robust Franco-German cooperation.

Addressing challenges with Poland and beyond

Following his visit to Paris, Merz traveled to Warsaw, where he met with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The meeting focused on rebuilding the Polish-German relationship, which had been strained in recent years. Tusk urged Merz to support stronger border controls in the EU’s eastern regions, particularly along the Russian and Belarusian borders, while also warning against undermining the Schengen Area’s principle of free movement.

Merz’s visit to Poland marked a significant step in repairing ties with Warsaw, particularly after tensions over migrant policies and historical grievances. While the issue of financial compensation for Nazi-era crimes was not directly addressed, Merz expressed Germany’s recognition of the profound responsibility it bears for its past actions.

The chancellor’s European tour will continue with a visit to Brussels on Friday, where he is expected to engage with EU leaders on broader issues of security, defence, and economic stability.

A renewed Franco-German partnership for a stronger Europe

The meeting between Macron and Merz marks a new chapter in Franco-German relations and reflects a shared commitment to a more autonomous and resilient Europe. Their establishment of a joint security council signals their determination to address Europe’s evolving strategic challenges, including Russia’s aggression, the complexities of the global security environment, and the need for a stronger European defence framework.

With Merz at the helm of Germany, the two nations are poised to deepen their collaboration across a range of critical issues, from military spending to energy policy. The success of this partnership will be crucial in shaping Europe’s future role in global security and maintaining its sovereignty in an increasingly uncertain world.