Amid the changing geopolitical situation, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel (2005-2021) said that Europe must become more independent, including from the US, and step up diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
“Europe must take its destiny into its own hands more than ever“, Merkel said, speaking at the traditional “Mathieu-Mall“ reception at Hamburg City Hall. She also stressed that Europe must be able to speak with one voice and be perceived as an independent political force on the world stage”. “For me, this goes far beyond security issues”, the former German Chancellor noted. In addition, she said, the EU must achieve greater independence in the digital sphere.
Regarding the situation in Ukraine, Merkel said the European Union must “act as a military supporter of Ukraine“ and “put its diplomatic power in the balance to end“ the conflict. She noted that as early as 2021 she believed that negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin could not be left to the United States alone.
However, the former German chancellor believes that the EU's independence and self-sufficiency can only be achieved with adequate financial resources. “For this reason, a healthy and growing economy, as well as strengthening the internal market and trade with non-European countries, are of paramount importance“, Merkel concluded, citing recent trade agreements with India and the Mercosur countries.