German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the new US National Security Strategy as essentially unexpected and rejected parts of it, DPA reported, BTA reported.
The strategy, published late last week, paints a bleak picture of the situation in Europe regarding migration, democracy and freedom of expression.
Merz said today that it largely corresponds to what US Vice President J.D. Vance already said at the Munich Security Conference in February.
In Munich, Vance accused Germany and other European allies of restricting freedom of expression and marginalizing parties such as the far-right, anti-immigrant "Alternative for Germany" (AfD).
"Some of it is understandable, some "Some of it is justified, and some of it is unacceptable for us from a European perspective," Merz said of the American strategy.
"I don't see any need for the Americans to want to save democracy in Europe. If it had to be saved, we could do it ourselves," he added.
Regarding security policy cooperation, Merz said he felt justified in his belief "that we in Europe, and therefore in Germany, need to become much more independent of the United States in terms of security policy."
He said that "America first" is good, but "America alone" cannot be in Washington's interest.
"You also need partners in the world, and one of these partners can be Europe, and if you can't do anything with Europe, at least make Germany your partner," he said. Merz.
The Chancellor stressed that Germany and the United States have a common goal, namely "preserving freedom, security and peace on our continent".
"And I hope that the Americans will follow us on this path", said Merz. "If that doesn't happen, we must at least be mentally prepared for it and, one day, be physically ready", added the German Chancellor.