Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe should become less dependent on the United States for its security after Washington released a new national security strategy that has surprised and worried many European leaders.
Speaking in Berlin Merz said parts of the US strategy were unacceptable from a European point of view. The document suggested that Europe was at risk of losing its cultural identity and claimed that some European governments were harming democracy. It also said the United States should support groups inside Europe that challenge current leadership in certain countries.
Merz called the tone of the document unusual and said Europe does not need the United States to protect or repair its democratic systems. He said European nations are capable of defending their own values and must strengthen their independence in security matters.
The German leader also said the document confirmed his long held view that Europe should build stronger defense capabilities and not rely too heavily on American support. However he added that the United States remains an important partner and said he hopes cooperation will continue in a respectful way.
The comments come at a time when Europe is rethinking its role in global security especially because of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Several governments in the European Union have already begun increasing spending on defense and exploring new cooperation models to respond to growing geopolitical challenges.
European analysts say Merz’s remarks reflect a wider debate across the region about strategic independence. Some leaders support stronger EU defense structures while others warn that moving too far from the United States could weaken the NATO alliance.
For now Merz has signaled that Germany intends to play a larger role in shaping Europe’s security future and will push for more unity and responsibility within the region.