National Freedom ‘At Risk’ Says Merz as He Warns Against ‘Forced Settlement’ in Ukraine

Kicking off the debate in the German parliament, Leader the head of government outlined the critical issues this fall, stating that Germany faces decisions “not about details, but about very fundamental issues” that will shape its future.

“It is essential to adopt a sober look at the current situation in order to choose the correct path for our country,” he said.

He emphasized that “our freedom is under threat” with a increasing “feeling of vulnerability,” adding that the country’s financial system is also “strained” from “an emerging trend in protectionism.”

He also warned against “political forces at home and abroad” that challenge unity and undermine the nation’s democratic foundations.

On security, he began by saying that the Moscow’s aggression of Ukraine “directly affects on our lives,” and asserted: “We want this war to end.”

But he conceded that “there is reason to fear it will continue for some time.”

Merz stressed that “ending it at the expense of Ukraine’s independence and borders is out of the question,” and alerted that “a dictated peace” could “further motivate Putin to seek his subsequent goal.”

He then condemned recent Moscow’s unmanned aerial violations into the Polish territory and the Romanian airspace.

“Putin has long been testing the limits,” he said, but made clear:

We will not allow this.

‘National Defense Readiness Is Essential’, Merz Says

Merz reiterated his frequent stance on national security, asserting:

Our aim is to be able to defend ourselves so that we do not have to defend ourselves.

Additionally, he highlighted a broader point about the necessity of updating the nation, its civil protection plans, and the military.

He also talked about trade, including seeking new partners “amid growing global challenges.”

He noted that “the separation between domestic and foreign policy is simply outdated,” as the state’s initiatives abroad “help maintain liberty, peace and prosperity at home.”

He also referenced progress on his government’s mission to reduce the number of asylum applications in response to growing migratory pressures.