Friedrich Merz Set to Lead Germany as CDU Wins Election, Seeks Stronger European Unity Amid Trump’s Shift
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Germany is on the verge of a new government following Sunday’s election, with Friedrich Merz of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) poised to become the next chancellor. However, Merz and his party, along with their Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), must now form a coalition to govern effectively.
Merz Pushes for European Independence from the US
A key issue emerging from the election is how Germany and Europe will navigate relations with the United States under President Donald Trump. After his party’s victory was confirmed, Merz emphasized the need to strengthen European unity and reduce reliance on the US, a striking departure from the CDU’s traditionally close ties with Washington. “We must work towards European independence, step by step,” Merz stated.
This shift is particularly notable given Merz’s deep-rooted transatlantic ties. A self-proclaimed “European of conviction” and a long-time advocate for German-US relations, he chaired the Atlantik-Brücke (Atlantic Bridge) from 2009 to 2019, an organization dedicated to fostering German-American cooperation. He has also expressed admiration for former US President Ronald Reagan, highlighting his long-standing support for transatlantic economic policies.
Tensions Between Merz and Trump’s Foreign Policy
Despite his historical pro-US stance, Merz has been increasingly vocal in his criticism of Trump’s approach to NATO and European security. Trump’s insistence that European nations must shoulder more responsibility for their own defense has prompted Merz to advocate for a stronger, more self-sufficient Europe.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in February, Merz warned of a turning point in transatlantic relations, urging European leaders to take the US shift seriously. His concerns were further reinforced by Trump’s recent comments suggesting that NATO allies failing to meet defense spending targets would not be guaranteed US protection.
Following his election win, Merz reiterated Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and opposed Trump’s overtures toward Russia. He condemned any attempts by Trump to negotiate a Ukraine-Russia settlement without European involvement, calling such moves “unacceptable.”
Similarities with Trump on Domestic Issues
While their foreign policy stances diverge, Merz and Trump share common ground on domestic issues. Both leaders prioritize pro-business, anti-regulation policies and take a hardline stance on immigration. Merz’s tough rhetoric on border security and asylum policies likely contributed to the CDU’s strong election performance, particularly as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) surged in popularity.
On social issues, Merz has also shown alignment with Trump’s views. When asked about Trump’s declaration that the US would officially recognize only two genders, Merz responded that he could understand the position, reflecting his conservative approach to cultural debates.
Can Merz Lead Europe in the Trump Era?
With Germany’s new government still forming, Merz faces the challenge of consolidating European unity while navigating shifting transatlantic relations. Analysts suggest that he will seek to bolster Europe’s strategic autonomy, particularly in defense and economic policy, to counterbalance the US’s evolving stance.
However, questions remain about Merz’s leadership capabilities. Unlike previous CDU chancellors, he has never held a high-level government position at the national or regional level. “Merz is largely untested as a political leader,” noted Rachel Tausendfreund of the German Council on Foreign Relations. “But he understands the stakes and appears determined to reinforce Europe’s position on the global stage.”
As Germany moves toward forming a coalition government, Merz’s ability to navigate both domestic and international pressures will be crucial in defining Europe’s response to a rapidly changing global order.
