German Chancellor Friedrich Merz cautioned citizens to prepare for significant changes as the nation confronts what he described as a critical period in its contemporary history. Speaking on Friday at a Saarbruecken event commemorating 35 years since reunification, Merz emphasized the need for Germans to unite and face challenges with renewed determination. He highlighted military strengthening as essential, asserting that Germany must relearn self-defense against what he characterized as autocratic alliances threatening the country's democratic values from external and internal sources.
Berlin has positioned itself as a major supporter of Kyiv in its conflict with Moscow, with Merz advocating for Russia's economic exhaustion. The chancellor acknowledged in August that Germany faces a structural crisis rather than temporary setbacks. The International Monetary Fund projects zero growth for Germany this year after last year's recession. French President Emmanuel Macron, attending the celebrations, urged Europeans to make difficult decisions and reject extremist alternatives.
Berlin has positioned itself as a major supporter of Kyiv in its conflict with Moscow, with Merz advocating for Russia's economic exhaustion. The chancellor acknowledged in August that Germany faces a structural crisis rather than temporary setbacks. The International Monetary Fund projects zero growth for Germany this year after last year's recession. French President Emmanuel Macron, attending the celebrations, urged Europeans to make difficult decisions and reject extremist alternatives.
