During a government statement in the Bundestag on 29 January, German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz firmly outlined Berlin’s position on the United States amid escalating transatlantic tensions.
‘As democracies, we are partners and allies, not subordinates,’ Merz said, responding to recent harsh statements and actions by the American administration. The chancellor emphasised that Germany and Europe do not intend to accept political subordination to Washington.
The speech took place against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict over Greenland, threats to impose special tariffs, and criticism from the US of Europe’s contribution to NATO, including the Afghan mission. Merz specifically noted that Germany had lost 59 soldiers in Afghanistan while fulfilling its allied obligations and would not allow this contribution to be devalued.
The Chancellor called on Europe to be more independent and united: ‘Europe will only be able to defend its interests if we learn to speak the language of power politics and become a European power ourselves.’ According to him, the continent must become an independent global player, while remaining an alternative to imperialism and autocracy.
Merz confirmed his commitment to the transatlantic partnership and NATO, but in terms of equality and mutual respect. ‘We will always extend a hand of cooperation,’ he said, but on equal terms.’