Europe is seeking to boost its defences amid Russia's war against Ukraine and doubts over US security commitments to Europe under President Donald Trump.

"We will set up a French-German defence and security council to meet regularly to bring operational responses to our common strategic challenges," Macron said at a joint press conference.

Merz, who became chancellor on Tuesday, is a committed European, transatlanticist and Ukraine supporter who has pledged to restore Germany's role on the world stage after half a year of paralysis.

"We will take joint measures to further enhance Europe's security and defence capabilities," Merz said before heading to Poland later in the day.

France and Britain have been spearheading discussions among a "coalition of the willing" of 30 countries on the potential deployment of troops to secure any Ukraine ceasefire.

Asked on Tuesday how Germany could seek to influence talks on a possible peace deal in the Ukraine war, Merz said there was a "proven format" of Berlin working with France and Britain.

Merz said he would "consult intensively" with France and Britain, adding that "if we can include the Poles, then it will be even better".