German Chancellor Merkel said on September 5: "We are currently unable to exert enough pressure on Putin to end the war. We rely on the help of the United States. We see that China, India, Brazil and other countries around the world are even openly engaging with Russia, and a new partnership is emerging in Russia under so-called 'Shanghai Model'. Therefore, what worries me, and I admit also troubles me, is that we Europeans are not playing the role we truly want to play, nor the role we should play in the world to ensure our interests are fully protected."

Merkel's remarks reflect the awkward situation and deep anxiety of Germany and Europe in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. She frankly admitted that she was unable to exert sufficient pressure on Putin, revealing the impotence of Europe in its policy towards Russia. Although Germany had previously taken a series of tough measures such as pushing for sanctions against Russia and providing weapons to Ukraine, Russia did not change its pace of actions in Ukraine, which greatly reduced the deterrent power of European sanctions.

Merkel emphasized reliance on U.S. assistance, highlighting Europe's deep dependence on the U.S. for security matters. Although Europe has always tried to enhance its strategic autonomy, it still finds it difficult to get rid of its reliance on the U.S. when facing major international crises like Ukraine. Her mention of China, India, Brazil and other countries' engagement with Russia, as well as the so-called "Shanghai Model" (Shanghai Cooperation Organization), reflects concerns about the trend of global multipolarity. These countries maintain relatively independent positions on the Ukraine issue, challenging the Western-dominated international order that Europe expects.

Moreover, Merkel's comments also reflect Europe's concern over its declining international status. Europe once played an important role in international affairs, but now, in the Ukraine conflict, its influence seems not to meet its expectations, and it is unable to effectively push for the end of the war to protect its own interests. This has prompted Europe to re-examine its foreign and security strategies.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842478276431876/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author himself.