Munich Security Conference: Merz Calls for Transatlantic Trust & Stronger Europe

Munich, Germany – Friday, February 13, 2026 – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a stark assessment of the shifting global order at the opening of the Munich Security Conference today, calling for a renewed trans-Atlantic partnership and a significant bolstering of European defense capabilities. Addressing an audience of international security leaders, Merz warned that the era of unchallenged Western dominance is over, citing the war in Ukraine and the growing assertiveness of China as evidence of a new “politics of power.”

“In the age of great powers, our freedom is no longer guaranteed, it is threatened,” Merz stated, urging for “firmness” and “sacrifices, not a day from now, but now.” His remarks underscored a growing sense of urgency within Europe regarding its own security and its relationship with the United States, particularly in light of potential shifts in American foreign policy.

Merz’s call for increased military spending comes as several European nations are already reassessing their defense budgets. He affirmed Germany’s commitment to investing “hundreds of billions of euros” in defense over the coming years, reiterating the goal of reaching the NATO target of dedicating 5% of GDP to security. He further pledged to build “the strongest conventional army in Europe,” signaling a significant shift in Germany’s traditionally cautious approach to military power.

The German Chancellor reaffirmed Berlin’s unwavering support for Ukraine, describing it as a “courageous resistance to Russian imperialism.” He argued that the losses inflicted upon Moscow by Ukrainian forces are creating the conditions for a future peace settlement, though he did not elaborate on the specifics of such a settlement. This commitment to Ukraine is seen as a key element of a broader strategy to deter further Russian aggression and uphold the principles of international law.

Beyond military strength, Merz emphasized the need for greater European sovereignty, particularly in the areas of industry, technology, and energy. He advocated for the creation of a “strong European pillar” within NATO, not as a replacement for the alliance, but as a complement to it. In a potentially significant development, Merz revealed that he had “initiated confidential discussions with the French President regarding European nuclear deterrence.” This suggests a growing willingness within Germany to explore closer cooperation with France on strategic defense matters, including the sensitive issue of nuclear weapons.

French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to deliver a speech in the coming weeks outlining his doctrine on French nuclear deterrence, a move that could further fuel the debate over European strategic autonomy. France and the United Kingdom are the only European nations currently possessing nuclear weapons.

Acknowledging a growing rift between Europe and the United States, Merz appealed for a revitalization of the trans-Atlantic partnership, advocating for a more balanced relationship. “Together, we are stronger,” he said, asserting that NATO remains a strategic asset for both Europe and Washington. He directly addressed “American friends” in English, urging them to “repair and revive trans-Atlantic trust together.” This direct appeal underscores the importance Germany places on maintaining a strong alliance with the United States, even as it seeks to enhance its own strategic capabilities.

Merz also called for the development of broader global partnerships with countries such as Canada, Japan, India, Brazil, and South Africa, aiming to reduce dependencies and defend an international order based on law and cooperation. This reflects a recognition that Europe cannot rely solely on the United States for its security and prosperity, and that it needs to diversify its relationships to navigate a more complex and multipolar world.

“A sovereign Europe is our best response to this new era,” Merz concluded, calling for the preservation of democratic freedom and solidarity in the face of ongoing geopolitical upheaval. His speech sets the tone for what is expected to be a critical Munich Security Conference, as leaders grapple with the challenges of a rapidly changing world and seek to forge a path towards greater security and stability.

The conference, which brings together top international security figures, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is taking place against a backdrop of heightened tensions and uncertainty. Secretary Rubio met with Chancellor Merz earlier today, Friday, February 13th, in a meeting described by both sides as constructive. Rubio also held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, signaling a willingness to engage with Beijing despite ongoing disagreements over trade, human rights, and geopolitical issues.

Other key attendees at the conference include NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and a delegation of prominent U.S. Democrats, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Newsom used his platform to criticize U.S. President Donald Trump’s climate policy, stating that California’s commitment to combating climate change remains steadfast regardless of federal policy shifts.