US EditionMeloni and Merz: EU's New Power Couple
The German-Italian partnership calls for reforms to boost EU competitiveness and defense, proposing a $24 billion joint arms procurement deal, amid rising geopolitical challenges.
- On Feb. 12, 2026, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz present a joint-policy paper urging reforms to boost competitiveness at an informal European Union summit.
- After the decline of the Merkel‑Macron 'Merkron' era, multiple crises including Russia’s war in Ukraine and U.S. unpredictability have weakened their axis, prompting Germany and Italy to push for strategic autonomy.
- Observers highlight that Merz, a pro-market conservative, and Meloni, from Fratelli d'Italia's nationalist lineage, form an unlikely alliance, with critics calling her opportunistic and admirers pragmatic.
- The plan pushes for closer defense and industrial cooperation, with the joint German‑Italian action plan strengthening defense, cybersecurity and strategic industries while Rome reportedly prepares a $24 billion Rheinmetall procurement.
- At the same time, France under Macron remains influential on nuclear deterrence and diplomacy, so momentum shifts but does not entirely displace Paris.
23 Articles
23 Articles
In order to make the EU fit for competition with China and the USA, XXL reforms are needed. Chancellor Merz suddenly has his most important ally in Italy.
From the commercial agreements to the car, Italian government chief Giorgia Meloni and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz join them in what is more strength to guide the European agenda, with the risk of surprised the role of French President Emmanuel...
On issues ranging from trade deals to the car industry, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have increasingly joined forces to steer European Union policy – and have risked sidelining French President Emmanuel Macron. At today’s EU summit, far-right Meloni and conservative Merz will...
For Germany, the proposal of the Elysée distracts from the real problems Intense with the Melons: no to the clash with Trump wanted by Paris. "Pleasure to see you again, Giorgia" . "Also for me, Friedrich. The Meloni-Merz axis is strengthening. The summit of two weeks ago at Villa Pamphili, between kisses, smiles and hugs, which decreed the plan of action between Italy and Germany, is bearing fruit.
Meloni and Merz: Is a new Italy-Germany axis leading the European Union?
Giorgia Meloni backed the EU-Mercosur trade deal despite French opposition, while Germany and Italy pushed to soften the 2035 petrol and diesel car ban. Berlin is also reportedly reconsidering the Franco-German FCAS jet project and eyeing Italy’s GCAP programme with Britain and Japan
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