At his first major European summit, Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need to keep the U.S. engaged in European security. With rising tensions over Russia’s war in Ukraine, Merz joined other leaders in calling for unity, tougher sanctions, and a stronger European role—while acknowledging Europe’s reliance on American support.
Germany's newly appointed Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, made a strong impression at his first major European Political Community summit, held in Albania. Emphasizing transatlantic unity, Merz urged European leaders to "keep the Americans on our side," acknowledging that Europe alone cannot guarantee peace and freedom on the continent.
The summit convened 27 EU nations alongside the UK, Turkey, and Western Balkan countries to address European security and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was present, while Russia and Belarus were excluded.
Merz's early diplomatic efforts, including visits to key capitals like Paris, Warsaw, Brussels, and Kyiv, signal a proactive approach and have sparked high expectations for Germany's leadership in a time of geopolitical instability.
During the summit, Merz joined French President Emmanuel Macron, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in expressing frustration over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s refusal to participate in peace talks held in Istanbul. Zelenskyy used the opportunity to call for tougher sanctions on Russia, specifically targeting its energy and banking sectors.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that new sanctions are in the works. However, political analysts caution against overestimating the EU’s geopolitical leverage, especially when compared to major players like the United States, Turkey, and China. As Germany steps up its stance against Russia, it must navigate both internal European dynamics and broader global power shifts.