Germany's election winner Friedrich Merz warned the United States on Monday against turning its back on allies but also urged Europeans to build up their own defence capabilities, saying it was now "five minutes to midnight for Europe".

Germany’s Friedrich Merz takes swipe at Trump and calls for ‘independence from the USA’ - Germany’s likely next chancellor has also questioned whether NATO will continue to exist

Conservative leader Friedrich Merz has triumphed at Germany’s ballot boxes, paving his way to become the next chancellor. His win is of particular significance to Europe — the leader has vowed to strengthen the EU,