We simply must become stronger together in nuclear deterrence in Europe,' Merz, expected to become Germany's next chancellor, said in an interview as the continent seeks to respond to US President Donald Trump's upending of the transatlantic alliance.

German chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz is open to negotiations regarding the joint use of nuclear weapons between the United Kingdom and France. However, he does not rule out the protection of the United States,

Incoming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz last week said the UK and France should discuss whether their nuclear protection could extend to Germany.