German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for a stronger and more assertive European Union, saying Europe must use its full political, economic, and military capabilities to shape a more secure and prosperous future. Addressing the Bundestag ahead of the upcoming EU summit in Brussels, Merz emphasized the need for greater European cooperation in defense, economic policy, and global diplomacy.
Merz described the recent Middle East ceasefire as proof that “political action makes a difference in this world,” thanking leaders from the United States, Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye for helping secure the truce and the release of hostages. He said Europe must draw lessons from such diplomacy and “bring its power to bear to shape the world for the better.”
Calling for increased defense spending and stronger NATO collaboration, Merz stressed that peace in Europe “can only exist in freedom when it’s founded on strength — economic, political, and military.” He reiterated his proposal to use €140 billion in frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s military resilience, arguing that Europe must show that aggression carries high costs.
Merz also urged for less regulation and more innovation within the EU to remain globally competitive, saying that “Europe will only become more productive through open technologies and competitiveness, not bans.” His remarks signaled Germany’s intention to play a more active role in shaping Europe’s strategic direction in the years ahead.