After the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, French President Francois Mitterrand reassured the US, saying that Europe was far from having its own defense. There were too many obstacles: the UK was hesitant, Ireland was neutral, and reunited Germany seemed lost on what role it should play.
Fast forward nearly 40 years, and things are starting to change in Germany with a new leader, Friedrich Merz. He wants Europe to take defense more seriously, especially since the US, under President Donald Trump, seems less reliable to help against threats like Russia. “America First” is pushing Europe to work together on defense, much like how Mitterrand once helped set the groundwork for the euro in exchange for Germany’s reunification.
Although Merz’s new coalition is just getting started, he’s pushing for Germany to spend big—up to €200 billion (about $210 billion) —to strengthen its defense. He’s sounding alarms about the urgent need for action, noting that time is running out. This could lead Germany to change its old ways of being careful with money and focus more on spending for security.
Rethinking its defense spending could lead to new partnerships, especially in areas like sharing nuclear capabilities with France. Experts say that a strong partnership between Germany’s financial resources and France’s defense goals could emerge from this new thinking.
This shift is particularly important now as Germany and France tackle challenges like economic slowdown, rising right-wing politics, and the need for more unity in Europe. Leaders like Mario Draghi have urged Germany to take action amid growing concerns over security and trade competitiveness.
Merz’s approach could also strengthen ties with countries like Poland, which has become a major defense spender in Europe. Together, France, Germany, and Poland could create a united front against external pressures.
However, some people still worry about Germany returning to a more powerful role in Europe, especially after previous leaders were criticized for strict economic policies. But there is a sense of optimism that Europe is starting to move forward.
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