Germany’s New Era: Power, Partnerships & Defending Freedom in a Shifting World Order
Europe’s New Reality: A Shift to Power Politics and the Search for Self-Reliance
Europe has “ended a long ‘vacation from history,’” according to German philosopher Peter Sloterdijk, entering an era characterized by power flexing and great-power politics. The United States’ claim to global leadership is being challenged, and the international order based on rights and rules, while imperfect, no longer exists in its previous form.
Russia’s war against Ukraine is the most glaring expression of this new era, but the shift runs deeper. China is also asserting itself as a great power, having strategically laid the foundations for influence over world affairs for decades. The unipolar moment following the fall of the Berlin Wall is over.
This return to power politics isn’t solely driven by rivalries between major powers, but also by turmoil and unrest within societies undergoing rapid technological change. As democratic states grapple with their capacity to act, there’s a longing for strong leadership, which great-power politics appears to offer—at least for the time being.
These politics are fast-paced, tough, and unpredictable, operating on a zero-sum basis. Interconnectedness doesn’t guarantee peace or a lawful order; instead, dependencies are exploited. Raw materials, technologies, and supply chains become instruments of power in a struggle for spheres of influence, and allegiances.
Germany’s Response: Freedom, Security, and Strength
Germany is adapting to this new reality, recognizing the need to acknowledge the changing world while refusing to accept it as fate. The country aims to shape events, preserve its interests and values through decisive action, European unity, and confidence in its own strength, as well as the transatlantic relationship.
German foreign and security policy centers on three pillars: freedom, security, and strength. Freedom is paramount, security protects it, and economic strength allows it to flourish. Germany’s policy is firmly anchored in a united Europe, which is more valuable than ever.
In the past, Germany relied on normative power to condemn violations of international order, often lacking the means to remedy those situations. The gap between aspirations and capabilities has widened, and Germany is now focused on closing it, living up to reality.
Russia’s GDP is around $2.5 trillion, while the European Union’s is almost ten times higher. Yet, Europe hasn’t fully translated that economic power into strength. To unlock its potential, a shift in mindset is needed—a realization that freedom is no longer guaranteed and requires determination, change, and sacrifice.
Historically, Germans have been hesitant to exercise state power, prioritizing its containment since 1945. However, the current context demands a reassessment. While excessive state power can be destructive, too little can be equally detrimental. As Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski stated 15 years ago, “I fear German power less than German inaction.”
Germany won’t simply react to the moves of great powers or engage in power politics within Europe. It seeks leadership through partnership, not hegemonic ambitions. The best defense of freedom lies in collaboration with neighbors, allies, and partners, building on strength, sovereignty, and solidarity.
A Program for Freedom: Military Strength and European Unity
Germany is strengthening its military, political, economic, and technological capabilities while reducing dependencies. A key priority is bolstering the European pillar within NATO. At the NATO summit in The Hague in June 2025, all allies committed to investing five percent of their GDP in security, and Germany amended its constitution to enable this, pledging hundreds of billions of euros to defense.
Germany has provided substantial diplomatic, financial, and military support to Ukraine in its resistance against Russia, imposing significant costs on Moscow. In 2025, European NATO allies and Canada provided roughly $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, with the United States reducing its contribution. Germany was the largest donor in 2025 and has increased its support in 2026.
Germany is revitalizing its defense industry, initiating major procurement projects in air defense, precision strikes, and satellite technology. New factories are opening, creating jobs, and fostering innovation. Military service reform is underway, aiming to make the Bundeswehr the strongest conventional army in Europe. Germany is also strengthening NATO’s eastern flank with a brigade in Lithuania and working to secure the Arctic High North.
Simultaneously, Germany is enhancing its economic and societal resilience, strengthening networks and critical infrastructure against hybrid attacks, forging supply chains to reduce unilateral dependencies, and driving progress in future technologies, including artificial intelligence. Efforts are also underway to protect the democratic order against internal and external threats.
Continental Teamwork and a New Transatlantic Partnership
Germany is working to strengthen Europe, believing that unity and sovereignty are essential responses to the new era. This involves curbing bureaucracy, fostering innovation, and opening Europe to new opportunities.
Europe must also become a global political player with its own security policy, building on Article 42.7 of the Treaty on European Union. Confidential talks are underway with France regarding nuclear deterrence, with the goal of agreeing on concrete steps this year, while remaining within NATO frameworks and upholding international law.
The European defense industry needs to standardize, scale, and simplify weapons systems to become more competitive. EU programs like Security Action for Europe (SAFE) will drive defense industrial cooperation.
A rift has opened between Europe and the United States, and Germany seeks to establish a new transatlantic partnership. Despite disagreements on issues like tariffs and climate agreements, a strong partnership remains vital. Both sides need to recognize their shared interests and rebuild trust. Being part of NATO is a competitive advantage for both Europe and the United States.
Germany believes in a partnership based on shared values, mutual respect, and trust. It is building a network of global partnerships with countries like Japan, Canada, Turkey, India, Brazil, South Africa, and Gulf states, recognizing that no single alliance can guarantee freedom.
Germany is also reassessing its relationship with China, acknowledging its importance while seeking to de-risk dependencies and promote fair competition. A united European approach is crucial in navigating this complex relationship.