Chancellor Merz addresses Munich Security Conference on transatlantic relations and defense

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz opened the Munich Security Conference with a speech warning that the rules-based international order is nearing collapse. He noted that power politics among great nations is becoming dominant and called for urgent dialogue between Europe and the United States. Merz acknowledged a significant gap between the two regions but argued against abandoning NATO, suggesting instead the creation of a self-sustaining European defense pillar within the alliance. He explicitly distanced Germany from the MAGA culture war, protectionist tariffs, and hegemonic fantasies, reaffirming commitment to free trade and climate agreements. Merz emphasized that neither the US nor Europe can manage global challenges alone. Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, he characterized Russia's actions as a barbaric war that will only end when Moscow realizes it cannot win. He outlined four priorities for Germany, starting with military and political strengthening of the nation.