German opposition leader Friedrich Merz, tipped to become chancellor in next month's election, said Germany would spend more on defence but would not commit to a NATO defence spending target as called for by U.

Friedrich Merz, the German conservative who is the front-runner to become the next chancellor, downplayed a remark by US President-elect Donald Trump calling for NATO members to more than double defense spending.

Even before being sworn in, Donald Trump harshly criticized European NATO countries. He also changed his stance on ending the conflict in Ukraine, suggesting he could achieve it within half a year, not in 24 hours as he previously claimed.

Even before being sworn in, Donald Trump has harshly criticized European NATO countries. He has also altered his stance on ending the conflict in Ukraine, suggesting he could achieve it within half a year,