Merz calls on Europe to stand up to Russia’s protectionism in 2026

German Chancellor Merz calls on Europe to stand up for its rights in order to safeguard peace, security, and prosperity in the face of growing international threats.

In order to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in 2026, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Europe to declare its interests more firmly. He has alerted the continent to the growing challenges posed by Russian aggression, global protectionism, and changing ties with the United States.

Merz emphasized that Russia’s actions go beyond Ukraine and are intended to destabilize the entire continent in his New Year’s speech, claiming that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine directly threatens Europe’s independence and security.

“We are seeing more and more clearly that Russia’s aggression was and is part of a plan targeted against the whole of Europe,” Merz stated, noting that Germany faces cyberattacks, espionage, and sabotage connected to Moscow on a daily basis.

Merz has been instrumental in bolstering European support for Ukraine and advocating for higher defense funding since taking office in May. Since 2023, Germany’s military spending has increased dramatically as part of its attempts to take on more responsibility for the security of Europe.

Additionally, the chancellor stated that Europe’s dependence on imported raw materials is increasingly being used as a political instrument and warned of the growing dangers posed by global economic protectionism. He stated that in order to recover its export-driven economy, lessen its reliance on China, and manage trade tensions around the world, Germany in particular needs to adjust.

Due to structural reforms and poor domestic investment, Europe’s largest economy has been struggling recently. After two years of recession, it is predicted to rise just modestly in 2026.

Merz went on to discuss how the long-standing security alliance between the United States and Europe has changed since President Donald Trump took office again in January 2025.

“For us Europeans, this means that we must defend and assert our interests much more strongly by ourselves,” he added, emphasizing that Europe needs to act with confidence but not fear.

Merz urged Europe to assume more responsibility for its future and re-establish a connection with the peace, freedom, and prosperity that have been established over decades, describing 2026 as a potentially pivotal year for both Germany and Europe.