German Chancellor Friedrich Merz used his debut visit to NATO headquarters Friday to walk back his earlier warnings about the defense alliance’s viability, declaring that America is “indispensable” for Europe.

At a press conference alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Merz praised a shift in U.S. posture and credited European partners for stepping up. “I am pleased to note that the attitude of the American government has evidently changed,” he said. 

“They recognize that we are significantly expanding our efforts. America is indispensable for Europe’s security — today and for a long time to come,” Merz said.

The tone was a sharp departure from February, when Merz — then the German opposition leader and a chancellor candidate — accused the Trump administration on German public broadcaster ARD of treating “Europe’s fate with indifference” and warned that Germany might soon have to build a defense alliance without the U.S. “I never thought I’d have to say this on live television,” he said at the time.

In office since early May, Merz is now signaling unity with the security alliance, even as he presses for greater efficiency and industrial reform. He’s called for fewer and simpler weapons systems in Europe, and cited Ukraine’s wartime drone production as a model.

Asked about Ukraine’s ambition to join NATO, Merz stuck to Berlin’s cautious stance: “Ukraine’s EU accession will certainly come before NATO membership — should that ever happen.” He also declined to say whether Germany would support sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine after a ceasefire.

On Turkey, another large NATO partner, Merz emphasized its strategic value to the alliance and confirmed plans to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, without providing details.