Germany’s Chancellor Merz Condemns Russia, Urges Ceasefire in Gaza Ahead of NATO Summit
Friedrich Merz Reaffirms Support for Israel, Slams Russia, and Pledges Record Defense Spending
[BERLIN] – In a forceful address to the Bundestag, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine and urged a ceasefire in Gaza, as tensions rise in the Middle East and Europe ahead of the upcoming NATO summit.
Merz’s speech marked a significant moment for Germany’s foreign and security policy, highlighting the government’s shifting priorities as the country faces dual challenges: supporting Ukraine in its war against Russia and responding to escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
“Germany’s reason of state is to defend Israel’s right to exist,” Merz said, reiterating a long-standing principle of German foreign policy while also calling for humanitarian de-escalation in Gaza.
Germany Recommits to NATO With Record Military Spending
Merz also announced that Germany will increase its defense budget to 2.4% of GDP, exceeding the NATO target and reinforcing Berlin’s commitment to collective security. This comes as part of a wider plan to invest record sums in defense and infrastructure, which Merz described as essential to counter global instability and prepare for future threats.
Germany has been operating under a provisional budget since the beginning of the year, following the collapse of the previous government. The new draft budget, approved by the Cabinet this week, includes significant public borrowing to fund these massive investments — a move that has sparked debate in Parliament.
Ukraine and Russia: Continued Condemnation and Support
Chancellor Merz didn’t hold back in his criticism of Russia’s continued war in Ukraine, calling it a “brutal assault on European peace and democracy.” He reaffirmed Germany’s pledge to supply Kyiv with advanced weapons and logistical support as part of its long-term commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
His message aligns closely with NATO’s stance and comes ahead of high-level talks expected to focus on expanding aid and accelerating Ukraine’s path toward membership in the alliance.
Gaza Conflict: Balancing Support and Restraint
Merz struck a more nuanced tone on the Israel-Iran conflict, reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself while calling for a ceasefire in Gaza to address the humanitarian crisis. His remarks reflect growing international concern over civilian casualties and the risk of a broader regional war.
“We must stand with Israel — but we must also stand for peace,” Merz said. “Both are possible, and both are necessary.”
Domestic Challenges: Budget Debates Continue
Meanwhile, Germany’s domestic political scene remains tense, with Parliament still debating the new draft budget. The high borrowing plan is designed to fund defense modernization, infrastructure upgrades, and climate projects, but has raised concerns among fiscal conservatives about the suspension of the country’s constitutional debt brake.
The final budget vote is expected later this year, and it will be a key test of Merz’s leadership and his ability to unify the Bundestag behind a bold financial strategy in uncertain times.
What’s Next?
- NATO summit to begin later this week with Germany playing a central role.
- Germany’s record defense and infrastructure budget still pending full parliamentary approval.
- Ongoing calls for ceasefire in Gaza may shape EU and NATO discussions.
- Continued military and economic support to Ukraine expected to dominate Germany’s international agenda.
