München, Germany – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for a more independent Europe, capable of bolstering NATO with a “self-sustaining pillar,” while acknowledging the continued importance of transatlantic ties with the United States. The remarks, delivered at the opening of the Munich Security Conference on Friday, February 13, 2026, signal a shift in tone from Berlin as concerns grow over the reliability of U.S. Commitment to European security.
Merz stated that Europe must free itself from its dependence on the U.S. And “establish a new transatlantic partnership.” He described a growing sense of estrangement in the relationship between the two continents, noting that the partnership has “apparently lost its self-evident nature, first in the United States, then likewise here in Europe and probably here in this room.”
The German Chancellor’s address comes amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty, particularly following the war in Ukraine, which prompted a significant restructuring of Germany’s security apparatus. The development underscores growing European anxieties about its own defense capabilities.
To achieve greater military autonomy, Merz raised the possibility of a larger European role in NATO’s nuclear deterrence. He revealed that initial discussions have taken place with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding potential collaboration in this area. While emphasizing Germany’s commitment to its legal obligations – specifically, not possessing its own nuclear weapons – Merz suggested exploring ways to strengthen Europe’s position within the alliance.
“Europe must develop into more sovereign and less dependent on countries that can abuse their power, for example in the area of raw materials,” Merz said, according to Dutch broadcaster NOS.
Despite acknowledging growing doubts about the trans-Atlantic relationship, Merz stressed the crucial importance of continued cooperation with the U.S. For both Europe and NATO. “Europe and America are stronger together than each of them alone,” he stated, urging the U.S. To rebuild ties with Europe.
The Munich Security Conference, often referred to as the “Davos of security,” is hosting approximately 60 world leaders and delegates from at least 115 countries this year. Prominent Democrats are also in attendance, signaling a willingness to engage with European counterparts, according to BNR.nl.
Merz’s comments follow a period of perceived instability in U.S. Foreign policy, and come nearly a year after a contentious speech by U.S. Politician J.D. Vance, as reported by NRC. The shift in rhetoric from the German Chancellor reflects a growing European desire for greater strategic autonomy in a rapidly changing world.
The German Chancellor’s opening remarks at the conference centered on the fractured trans-Atlantic relationship, as detailed by Tagesschau.de. He lamented a “return to power politics” and highlighted fundamental differences in worldview with the United States.
