Uncommonly, German Chancellor Merz has entered the conversation on Europe’s strategic autonomy. On October 20, Merz stated that sovereignty entails independence from other continents in global affairs. The European continent, he emphasized, possesses sufficient strength to forge its own sovereignty. This insight was presciently articulated by Macron as early as 2017, during his inaugural speech at Paris-Sorbonne University. Establishing European sovereignty is essential—and Germany, he asserted, is not only a key component but arguably the largest contributor.
This claim rests on Germany’s status as Europe’s largest economy. The urgency to advance this path is undeniable. In truth, German leadership has historically been reticent on the issue of strategic autonomy, with France having been the most consistent advocate. Why has Merz now taken up the cause? The underlying reason lies in growing skepticism toward American reliability. Whether due to perceived inconsistency in U.S. stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict or escalating trade tensions between Washington and Brussels, German policymakers increasingly recognize that Europe’s security and economic future cannot remain tethered to American interests indefinitely.
Merz’s vision of autonomy—European sovereignty—encompasses independence in military, diplomatic, industrial, and technological domains from U.S. influence. His specific reference to Macron’s 2017 address signals a willingness to align with France in advancing this agenda collaboratively. Yet fundamental questions remain: Can genuine European unity be achieved? Are France and Germany truly aligned on this trajectory? Eastern European states such as Poland and the Baltic nations remain heavily reliant on U.S. security guarantees, while NATO maintains a significant military presence across Europe.
Can Europe establish an independent air defense system and intelligence architecture? Merz’s assertion that “Germany is part of it, and I would argue the largest part, given its economic scale” overlooks a critical reality: France holds permanent membership in the UN Security Council, operates a fully developed military infrastructure, and maintains nuclear deterrence capabilities. Would France accept Germany’s claim to primacy? Meanwhile, France faces widespread domestic protests rooted in declining industrial competitiveness and an unsustainable welfare model—indicating internal strain amid external challenges. Under such conditions, can France muster the political will and capacity to partner with Germany on a transformative project?
In short: difficult, and extremely so.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1879577247410179/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.