Germany Vows Strength and Unity Ahead of NATO Summit, Says Chancellor Merz

Germany is prepared to reclaim its leadership role on the global stage, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in a powerful address to parliament ahead of a pivotal NATO summit. Emphasizing security threats from Russia, Merz affirmed that Germany would meet its alliance obligations and become a pillar of strength and reliability.
Speaking just before his departure to The Hague for the summit, Merz declared that the current moment represents a historic turning point. “We must be so strong that no one dares to attack us,” he stated, stressing that Germany will take on its fair share of responsibility within NATO.
He highlighted that Germany’s international partners are already seeing a new sense of decisiveness from Berlin, one that is welcomed and appreciated. “You can rely on us,” Merz said, reinforcing his commitment to international cooperation and security.
Alongside the foreign policy shift, Merz’s cabinet introduced bold budget plans focused on strengthening the military and reviving the economy. These include the long-awaited 2025 draft budget and a financial framework through 2029, marking a significant policy pivot after the previous government’s collapse.
With key summits in both NATO and the EU on the horizon, Merz stressed that Germany must help shape global affairs with two guiding principles: strength and reliability.