German Chancellor Merz Aims for Germany to Have Europe's Strongest Military

German Chancellor Merz has declared that strengthening the military is a top priority, aiming for Germany to possess the strongest army in Europe. In his government statement to the Bundestag, Merz emphasized, "Strength deters aggressors. Weakness, on the other hand, invites them." He stressed the goal of a Germany and Europe so strong that weapons would never need to be used.

Merz's statement followed a turbulent week, marking the first time in post-war German history that a chancellor-elect failed to secure an immediate majority in the Bundestag. During his first week, Merz visited Paris and Kyiv, reaffirming Germany's support for Ukraine in his Bundestag speech.

He criticized Russia for breaking international rules and reiterated Germany's unwavering support for Ukraine, stating, "We are not a party to the war, but we are not a neutral mediator either." Merz also addressed the Gaza conflict, expressing Germany's historical responsibility for Israel's security.