Merz calls for clear steps for peace in Gaza and Ukraine – Germany in focus

Merz calls for clear steps for peace in Gaza and Ukraine – Germany in focus

Since today, June 24, 2025, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made a remarkable government statement in the Bundestag that not only highlights the current status of German foreign policy, but also formulates important demands in the context of international conflicts and geopolitical challenges. Merz emphasizes that Germany is “back on the European and international stage” and at the same time is optimistic about the country's future role in Europe and beyond. Tagesschau reports.

A central theme of his speech was the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which Merz considers necessary to guarantee humane treatment of the civilian population. The situation of women, children and older people was particularly important in his remarks. The Chancellor also emphasizes Israel's right to self-defense and makes it clear that Iran's support for organizations such as Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi militia further complicates the situation.

Ukraine conflict in focus

Ukraine was also the focus of Merz's statements. He condemned the ongoing Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian cities, which most recently hit the capital Kiev hard and claimed at least 27 lives. Merz criticized the fact that Russia is currently not showing any willingness to make peace and demanded that peace efforts must also be carried out “in the language of strength”. The military situation in Ukraine remains tense, exacerbated by the upcoming NATO summit in Washington, which celebrates the alliance's 75th anniversary. ZDF highlights that this summit will also discuss strengthening Ukraine's air defense.

An important item on the agenda is the commitment of a total of 40 billion euros to support Ukraine, although further aid depends heavily on the results of the US elections in November. Presidential candidate Donald Trump and his critical relationship with NATO are raising questions as he threatens to cut off US aid. In this context, the summit also announces measures to coordinate arms deliveries from a new headquarters in Wiesbaden, which could be crucial for Ukraine's security.

The role of Germany in Europe

Friedrich Merz wants to set clear priorities in German foreign policy and is pushing for Germany to develop from a “sleeping middle power” to a “leading middle power”, like it describes the time. The upcoming NATO and EU summits will show whether Merz can meet the high expectations that he himself has raised. The challenge lies not only in foreign policy, but also in economic recovery and dealing with migration issues. These issues will be crucial to the success of his chancellorship.

Merz also criticized his predecessor Olaf Scholz's previous dealings with European partners and underlined the need to resolutely defend Germany's interests. Former NATO strategists, such as Stefanie Babst, point out that Europe cannot survive without a robust containment strategy against Russia, pointing to the urgent need to take a common position.

Overall, Merz's speech brings a breath of fresh air to German politics and bravely faces the challenges of the international arena, setting a clear direction that could be decisive for both Germany and Europe.