Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany's mainstream conservatives, has said that Europe must become independent from the United States in security matters, after his grouping won the biggest share of the vote in federal elections.

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".

Friedrich Merz could have one shot at fending off ascending populists and an increasingly hostile U.S., analysts say.

Friedrich Merz — the leader of the victorious Christian ... as Merz is a fierce defender of Europe and NATO. Meanwhile, Merz faces rising pressure on his right: Alternative for Germany (AfD ...