(MENAFN) Amid escalating worldwide security pressures, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz asserted on Monday that the European Union must evolve into a comprehensive European defense alliance.

Addressing a business forum organized by a major daily newspaper, Merz stressed that Europeans need to adopt fresh measures in light of the conflict in Ukraine, shifts in Euro-Atlantic dynamics, and China’s increasingly assertive behavior.

He declared, "We can no longer rely on the US to defend us, on China to supply us with raw materials, or on Russia to eventually return to the path of peace. The world is changing, and Europe must respond."

Merz underscored that "It’s a necessity to transform this European Union into a European defense union. We face international challenges that we as Europeans must address together – with the ability to defend ourselves."

Highlighting Germany’s weight as the EU’s largest economy and most populous member, Merz insisted that the country must assume heightened responsibility within Europe.

"We bear a far greater responsibility than anyone else to assume leadership within this EU. But that remains an empty phrase if it is not filled with substance," he stated.

The conservative leader identified Russia as the primary danger to the continent, contending that Moscow’s behavior transcends the battlefield in Ukraine and includes persistent hybrid assaults against Europe’s liberal democracies.

He warned that “This threat to Ukraine isn't just a territorial threat to a European country. It's a constant threat to our democracies, our freedoms, our way of life and work,” accusing Russia of orchestrating drone intrusions into European airspace and launching cyberattacks on both European and German companies.

MENAFN18112025000045017167ID1110358633