The rhetoric has shifted drastically since February, when Friedrich Merz — at the time Germany’s opposition leader and a candidate for chancellor — sharply criticized the Trump administration during an interview on Germany’s public broadcaster ARD. He accused the Trump White House of showing “indifference to Europe’s fate” and even warned that Germany may need to consider forming a defense alliance without the United States. “I never thought I’d have to say this on live television,” Merz said during that appearance.
Now, as the newly installed chancellor since early May, Merz is striking a markedly different tone. He is projecting unity with NATO while simultaneously advocating for increased efficiency and industrial reform within the alliance. As part of this vision, he has urged for a reduction in the number of weapons systems used across Europe, citing Ukraine’s innovative drone production efforts during wartime as a potential model for future defense strategies.
When asked about Ukraine’s desire to join NATO, Merz reiterated Germany’s measured approach. “Ukraine’s EU accession will certainly come before NATO membership — should that ever happen,” he said. He also declined to comment on whether Germany would support deploying peacekeeping forces to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire.
Regarding Turkey, a key member of NATO, Merz acknowledged its vital role in the alliance and confirmed he plans to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, although he did not disclose the timing or agenda of the meeting.
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