UPDATE - German defense chief says French president's criticism of US is ‘unfortunate’

UPDATES WITH MORE COMMENTS FROM PISTORIUS

BERLIN (AA) - German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius on Thursday criticized French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent critical comments about the US, and his warning that Europe should not be a “vassal.”

In an exclusive interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Pistorius urged closer cooperation between European allies and the US on international security matters, and warned against statements that could harm unity.

“I found this statement unfortunate. But I think the Elysee Palace has corrected it to some extent. We have never been in danger of becoming or being a vassal of the US,” he said.

Pistorius underlined that the European Union should play a more active role in international affairs, determine its own positions, also in consultation with its transatlantic ally, the US.

"He pointed out that divisions among transatlantic partners “would only help Chinese foreign policy.”

Macron said earlier that the EU should act in accordance with its “strategic autonomy” and avoid being drawn into any conflict between the US and China over Taiwan.

"Being an ally does not mean being a vassal. ... doesn't mean that we don't have the right to think for ourselves,” he said.