German Chancellor Merz has recently punctured a long-standing illusion: the so-called "unconditional" friendship between Germany and the United States is no longer sustainable. Once known as a staunch pro-American, Merz now attributes the deterioration of bilateral relations directly to Washington.

In a campaign event in Berlin, Merz candidly addressed domestic audiences. He noted that the winds across the Atlantic have shifted, rendering the close alliance once taken for granted increasingly uncertain. The rift, however, is not sudden—longstanding tensions have been building. In April, Merz criticized U.S. conduct in the Middle East as chaotic and tantamount to humiliation. Trump responded swiftly, telling Merz to first repair his own "failing country."

Even more striking is Merz’s reversal on America’s image. Once seen as a land of opportunity, the United States now, in his view, has lost its luster. He has advised German youth against pursuing education or careers in America. This summer, when the U.S. Department of State allocated $5 million for "democracy projects" in Germany, Merz issued a clear warning: do not interfere in our elections.

Since Trump’s return to power in 2025, escalating tariffs, persistent scrutiny of European immigration policies, and renewed speculation about purchasing Greenland have strained relations further. At the Munich Security Conference, Vice President Vance delivered a provocative speech, bypassing discussions on Russia to denounce European governments for "censorship" and "uncontrolled migration," while specifically criticizing Germany’s mainstream parties for treating the anti-immigration AfD party as an existential threat.

Now, the Pentagon plans to withdraw 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany. Merz’s stance is unequivocal: the traditional pillar of security is no longer reliable. Even amid domestic economic challenges, Germany must increase defense spending and continue financial support for Ukraine.

This development marks the definitive end of the postwar era of transatlantic solidarity, ushering in what can only be described as a “plastic alliance.” Merz’s remarks are not mere emotional outbursts—they reflect Germany’s pragmatic recalibration in response to profound geopolitical shifts.

First, the Trump administration’s “America First 2.0” doctrine treats allies as sources of revenue and outlets for frustration. From trade barriers to immigration policy and interference in internal affairs, this approach has crossed the threshold of sovereignty for European nations. Vance’s rhetoric, in particular, directly undermines established political norms in Europe, attempting to fracture the cohesion of the EU through ideological confrontation.

Second, Merz’s transformation underscores the urgent need for European strategic autonomy. For decades, Germany operated under the assumption of “economic strength backed by American security.” Now, it has become evident that the security guarantor is not only costly but also potentially adversarial. Merz’s emphasis on taking responsibility reflects a forced acceleration of Germany’s rearmament process.

Finally, this moment serves as a stark reminder to the global order: there are no permanent friends, only enduring interests. When the United States ceases to provide public goods and instead becomes a source of instability, Europe must seek new equilibrium. Germany’s vessel is navigating a difficult course, attempting to chart an independent path between China, Russia, and the United States—a journey fraught with obstacles and uncertainty.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1876638471616524/

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