German Chancellor Merz Calls for Urgent European Sovereignty Amid Global 'Epochal Break'
FRANKFURT – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a clarion call for European strategic independence on Monday, framing the current global landscape as a profound historical rupture demanding a unified and resolute response from the continent.
Speaking at the Deutsche Börse New Year's reception near Frankfurt, Merz described a world in flux. "We are witnessing what is likely the greatest phase of political uncertainty in recent memory—a deep caesura, a break between epochs," he told an audience of financial and political leaders.
The Chancellor pointed to the resurgence of great powers that prioritize raw power politics over a rules-based international order. "We see nations re-emerging that do not primarily wish to adhere to established rules, but rather to exercise influence, at times through a form of power politics that shows disdain for those very rules," Merz stated, in an apparent reference to geopolitical rivals.
Merz outlined a vision for a "sovereign, free, peaceful, and economically prosperous Europe," but stressed this would require concrete action. His blueprint hinges on three pillars: achieving genuine defense autonomy through European efforts, revitalizing the bloc's economic competitiveness, and pursuing technological independence to reduce critical external dependencies.
"Trans-Atlantic relations have undeniably changed," Merz acknowledged, referring to the evolving partnership with the United States. "But nostalgia for the past will not serve us. We must shape our future ourselves."
He emphasized Germany's central role in this project but argued that only a cohesive Europe could wield meaningful influence. "If we as Europeans act with unity and determination, we can shape global events. Our potential is greater than we often credit ourselves," Merz asserted.
The speech concluded with a sense of urgency. "We must take control of our destiny now," Merz warned, "if we intend to be an architect, rather than a subject, in this ongoing global transformation."
Analysis & Background
Merz's address reflects a hardening consensus in Berlin and Brussels following years of successive crises—from the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine to trade tensions and supply chain vulnerabilities. These events have exposed Europe's dependencies, particularly in energy, critical raw materials, and advanced technology. The call for "strategic autonomy," once a more theoretical EU goal, is now a central plank of practical policy discussions, driving initiatives like the European Chips Act and coordinated defense procurement.
Reactions & Commentary
Dr. Elena Vogel, a political scientist at the European Studies Institute, offered measured support: "Merz is correctly diagnosing a structural shift. The post-Cold War order is over. However, the real test is whether member states will commit the substantial financial resources and political capital needed to turn this rhetoric into reality."
Markus Bauer, a small business owner from Stuttgart, expressed pragmatic concern: "As an exporter, I hear 'competitiveness' and I think of bureaucracy and energy costs. If this push for independence means more red tape and higher taxes for European companies, we'll become less competitive, not more."
Clara Jensen, a climate activist and blogger, reacted with sharp criticism: "This is just fear-mongering dressed up as statesmanship. Instead of fueling a new era of bloc-based confrontation and military spending, we should be investing in global cooperation to tackle the actual existential crises: climate collapse and inequality. Merz's 'sovereign Europe' sounds like a fortress, not a future."