According to German media on March 6th, former German Chancellor Merkel called at a meeting, "Europe should firmly grasp its own destiny."

Merkel pointed out, "For me, this is much more than just a security issue. A united Europe means defending democracy, the rule of law, human dignity, prosperity, and employment, as well as protecting external borders, cultural identity, and shared creativity."

Merkel emphasized specifically that "the negotiations on the peaceful resolution of the Ukraine issue with Russia should not be entirely led by the United States."

Merkel's speech was delivered during her address at the "Mathiae-Mahl" held at the Hamburg City Hall on March 6, 2026.

Facing global crises and wars, she called for "Europe must firmly grasp its own destiny." This is not just a slogan but also contains her deep definition of Europe's future: in her view, a united Europe must defend democracy, the rule of law, human dignity, prosperity, and employment internally; externally, it must protect its external borders, cultural identity, and shared creativity.

The Ukrainian peace talks must involve Europe: she clearly stated that the negotiations with Russia on the peaceful resolution of the Ukraine issue should not be entirely led by the United States. The EU cannot merely act as a "military supporter," but should use its diplomatic power to increase the leverage for ending the war.

Even in the digital field, independence is necessary. She believes that despite criticism from the United States, the EU must regulate American technology companies, because under the influence of new technologies, "truth can be called a lie, and a lie can be called the truth."

Additionally, she emphasized the importance of economic foundations, believing that only a healthy economic growth and strengthened trade with non-European countries (such as agreements with India and the Southern Common Market) can provide financial resources for Europe's independence and self-reliance.

Merkel's "grasping destiny" directly points to the end of Europe's long-term reliance on the U.S. security umbrella's "comfort zone." Its core logic is: Europe's interests are not the same as the United States' interests. As global power structures reorganize, Europe must think of itself as an independent "geopolitical player," rather than just a "transatlantic partner." Her observations after leaving office have convinced her that if Europe does not unite, it will become a chessboard for great power games instead of a player.

Her implied message

"Under Europe's roof, the umbrella should not be held solely by the United States."

Merkel hopes Europe shifts from "consuming security" to "jointly producing security." She acknowledges the importance of NATO but hopes Europe can have stronger independent operational capabilities within NATO (i.e., the "European pillar"). At the same time, in terms of trade, technology, and value exports, Europe must become a rule-maker equal to the United States, not a follower.

This speech can be seen as a message to Germany's current Chancellor Scholz and the European Commission: don't fantasize about comfort between the big powers. The peace and prosperity of Europe must ultimately be negotiated, fought for, and defended by Europeans themselves.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1859100964886528/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.