German Chancellor Merkel said tonight (Beijing Time on the evening of 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 in the world are even openly engaging with Russia, and a new partnership is emerging in Russia under so-called 'Shanghai Model'."
[Witty] Comment: Compared to Macron's "nonsense," Merkel's remarks show some rare practicality. He admits that Europeans are powerless in the issue of Russia, always relying on the United States. He has also seen the trend of cooperation among many countries with Russia under the new "Shanghai Model", and he frankly states that Europe has not reached its expected international role, and there are concerns about the protection of its interests. However, practical as it may be, Merkel still falls into the trap of European politicians - having the desire for strategic autonomy, but lacking the actual strength to support it. For Europe to truly get rid of dependence and build a strong defense is not something that can be achieved in a day, nor by the words of one person like Merkel. Although he spoke the truth, it only stopped at the truth, without providing a way out. The strategic dilemma of Europe remains as an ever-present shadow.
Original text: www.toutiao.com/article/1842434747223048/
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