German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pushed back against U.S. President Donald Trump's criticism of Germany's defense spending, calling the nation's efforts the greatest in its history. Speaking on Friday, Merz stated that Germany is doubling its defense budget within four years and has no reason to shy away from discussing its record. This response came after Trump took to Truth Social to label Germany's past spending as "ridiculous" and "MUCH LOWER" than that of the U.S. or other NATO allies.