German Chancellor Mertz said in his New Year address on December 31, 2025 that Germany's partnership with the United States, which has always been a “reliable security provider,” is changing, and Europe, including Germany, must more steadfastly safeguard its own interests. Mertz also said that Germany is not a “victim of the external environment” or a “pawn of a major power,” and that Germany itself has the ability to overcome international and domestic challenges.

German Chancellor Mertz said in his New Year address on December 31, 2025 that Germany's partnership with the United States, which has always been a “reliable security provider,” is changing, and Europe, including Germany, must more steadfastly safeguard its own interests. Mertz also said that Germany is not a “victim of the external environment” or a “pawn of a major power,” and that Germany itself has the ability to overcome international and domestic challenges.