German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) called for a stronger Europe and greater independence from the United States at the opening of the Munich Security Conference. He told participants that no one had forced Germany into an excessive reliance on the United States, as the country has recently found itself. “This lack of maturity was self‑inflicted, but we are leaving that condition behind us today rather than tomorrow” he said. Merz warned that the United States should not be weakened by cutting ties with NATO; instead, the alliance must incorporate a “strong, self‑sustaining European pillar”.
Merz also warned that the United States could soon lose its dominant role. “In the foreseeable future, Beijing could match the United States on a military footing” he added. He noted that China is asserting a global role, having laid the groundwork for it “over many years with strategic patience”.