Germany’s Merz Calls for Turning EU Into a “European Defense Union” Amid Rising Global Threats

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe must undergo a fundamental security transformation, arguing that the EU can no longer depend on the United States or other global powers for its defense as geopolitical tensions intensify.

Speaking Monday at the Süddeutsche Zeitung Business Summit, Merz said Europe faces simultaneous threats from Russia, an unpredictable U.S. posture, and an increasingly assertive China — pressures that together demand a new strategic direction.

“Europe must respond to this changing world. We cannot rely on the U.S. to defend us, on China for critical materials, or on Russia ever returning to stability,” Merz said. “It is now a necessity to transform the European Union into a European defense union.”

Germany must “assume leadership”

Merz stressed that Germany — the EU’s largest economy — must take a leading role in shaping this shift.

“We bear a responsibility no other European country carries,” he said. “Leadership means substance, not slogans.”

Russia remains the primary threat

Merz called Russia the most significant security threat to Europe, pointing to hybrid attacks, cyber intrusions, and drone incursions targeting EU states.

“This is not only about Ukraine’s territory. It is a systematic assault on our democracies and way of life,” he said.

Moscow denies involvement in the recent surge of drone activity and cyber incidents across the continent.

Relations with the U.S. and China deteriorating

Merz warned that transatlantic ties have eroded under U.S. President Donald Trump, with tariffs and unilateral decisions straining decades of cooperation.

“The tariff dispute is not just a trade matter — it cuts deep into the foundation of the transatlantic relationship,” he said.

On China, Merz described a shift toward “internal repression and external aggression,” making Europe’s relationship with Beijing increasingly difficult.

“A new world order is emerging”

Merz said Europe is living through a historic turning point.

“The global order of the past 80 years is ending. A new one is forming — and Europe must choose whether it wants to shape it or be shaped by it,” he said.

He urged deeper economic and defense cooperation not only within the EU but also with partners such as the UK, Türkiye, and Norway.

“If Europe wants to shape the coming order, it can only do so together,” he emphasized.