France and Germany Launch Joint Security Council as Europe Seeks More Self-Reliance

The new partnership aims to boost military cooperation as the United States pushes Europe to shoulder more responsibility for its own defense.

French President Emmanuel Macron (R) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz speak to the media after talks at the Élysée Palace, in Paris, on May 7, 2025. Sean Gallup/Getty Images

French President Emmanuel Macron and new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans on May 7 to establish a Franco-German security council.

This signals a major step toward strengthening Europe’s defense posture amid persistent threats from Russia and a shifting global focus from the United States under President Donald Trump.