Merz urges Europe and US to mend fractured alliance at Munich

A blunt speech kicks off high-stakes talks on reviving trust. Can NATO survive the growing divide between former allies?

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2026 May 5 . 8:03 AM

1 min read

The image shows a map of the 73 years of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) enlargement... — The image shows a map of the 73 years of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) enlargement from 1949 to present. The map is divided into different regions, each representing a different year, and the text at the top of the image provides further information about the enlargement.

Merz urges Europe and US to mend fractured alliance at Munich

Friedrich Merz opened this year’s Munich Security Conference with a call for stronger ties between Europe and the United States. Speaking before senior officials, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he highlighted the growing strain in transatlantic relations. His address came as tensions between the two regions continue to escalate. Merz began by acknowledging a deep divide between Europe and the United States. He cited U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial statements—such as the suggestion of acquiring Greenland and imposing tariffs—as key sources of friction. These remarks, he argued, had further weakened trust between the two allies.

He also referenced last year’s speech by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who had criticised Europe for suppressing democratic rights. While Merz agreed that Vance’s assessment of Europe carried some truth, he stressed the need to move beyond disagreements. Instead, he urged both sides to rebuild their partnership, framing it as essential for global stability.

Throughout his speech, Merz underscored the strategic value of NATO. He described the alliance as a critical advantage for Europe and the United States, particularly in an era of rising geopolitical competition. The conference took place amid worsening relations between Europe and America. Merz closed by urging both sides to repair the damage and restore mutual trust. His remarks set the tone for discussions on how to revive cooperation in the months ahead.