Press feedback on Merz speech: “Germany is discovering power politics for itself” | EUROtoday

USA

„The New York Times“: “Merz’s speech is not a hymn to the old world order. Rather, it is a double criticism: of the USA because it has broken with the common transatlantic values, and of Europe because it is not doing enough to defend its own security and promote the economy independently of America.”

„CNN“: “Merz’s speech at the southern German conference […] highlighted the growing distance between the United States and Europe. […] And he openly criticized President Donald Trump’s administration’s policies on tariffs, climate change and culture wars – statements that could cause resentment in Washington.”

FRANCE

„L’Opinion“: “Friedrich Merz recognized the destruction of the international order and reached out to Washington to repair and revitalize transatlantic relations. However, in doing so, he also set his own conditions and exuded a great deal of self-confidence. […] The head of Europe’s largest economy made it very clear to his counterparts in Munich: rapprochement with the USA under Donald Trump must not come at the expense of the fundamental values ​​that are now under threat on the other side of the Atlantic, such as the rule of law and civil liberties.

GREAT BRITAIN

„Sky News“: “The German Chancellor gave the opening speech, which was really an attempt to set the tone for this year’s security conference – in stark contrast to last year, which was rather overshadowed by the US Vice President. […] Merz delivered a very strong message, including in English, to the Americans sitting in the audience.”

SWITZERLAND

“Neue Zürcher Zeitung”: “German chancellors favored to carry again on the safety convention in Munich. They most well-liked to depart the opening speech to visitors from overseas. […] But this hesitation ought to now be over. On Friday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz opened the convention at his personal request. There was a purpose for such boldness. Merz wished to make use of the most important potential worldwide stage to announce a change in fact: Germany is discovering energy politics for itself.”