Friedrich Merz, the man poised to become Germany’s next chancellor, has urged Europe to swiftly enhance its defense capabilities in response to a shifting US foreign policy that leans towards “America alone.” During a comprehensive press conference following his conservative alliance's victory in the federal election, Merz emphasized the need for Europe to act urgently as geopolitical tensions rise, stating, “This is really five minutes to midnight for Europe.”
Addressing the press, Merz reiterated his focus on the unstable geopolitical environment. While he aims to maintain strong ties with the US, he remains prepared for “the worst-case scenario.” With the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) doubling its support to 20%, Merz highlighted the urgent need for Germany's political mainstream to address the issues fueling the AfD's popularity. He warned, “This is really the last warning to the political parties of the democratic center in Germany to come to common solutions.”
On the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Merz directed his initial comments towards Kyiv. He posted on X: “Europe stands unwaveringly by Ukraine’s side. Now more than ever, it holds true: We must put Ukraine in a position of strength.” Criticizing the US for excluding Ukraine and Europe from recent peace talks with Russia, Merz stated, “For a just peace, the attacked country must be part of peace negotiations.”
Despite being a known transatlanticist, Merz expressed concern over the decreasing US interest in Europe, stating, “If those who really do not just make ‘America first,’ but almost ‘America alone’ their motto prevail, then it will be difficult.” However, he remains optimistic about maintaining the transatlantic relationship.
Merz acknowledged the need for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities, especially in light of recent announcements from Washington. “We Europeans now need to very hurriedly become capable to act,” he asserted. Merz also criticized interference from the Trump administration in Germany’s election campaign, deeming it unacceptable. He pointed to Elon Musk’s congratulatory message to the AfD’s candidate as an example.
The AfD celebrated a significant electoral gain, particularly in the former communist east, where it secured 43 out of 48 seats. However, due to a historical “firewall” between mainstream parties and the far-right, the AfD will not participate in coalition negotiations. Alice Weidel, the AfD’s co-leader, labeled Merz’s refusal to form a coalition with the AfD as a “democracy blockade.”
Merz’s CDU/CSU alliance secured 28.5% of the vote. He emphasized the importance of addressing Germany’s problems collaboratively to diminish the AfD’s influence. He cautioned that failure to do so could lead to more severe issues in future elections.
With migration being a focal point of the election campaign, Merz reiterated his stance on regaining control over immigration. His hardline policies contrast sharply with those of the SPD, potentially leading to challenging negotiations as they attempt to form a grand coalition. Many Germans fear a repeat of the previous GroKo, criticized for lacking ambition and failing to address critical reforms.
The federal election delivered disappointing results for all incumbent government parties. The SPD received its worst-ever result with 16% of the vote, while the Greens garnered 11.6%. The FDP and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) failed to meet the 5% threshold to enter parliament.
Merz aims to form a coalition by Easter, stressing the urgency of the negotiations. “The world is not waiting for us,” he stated. Additionally, Merz assured that the Israeli Prime Minister could visit Germany without apprehension, criticizing the warrant issued by the international criminal court for alleged war crimes.
