Merz: the coming year may be crucial for Germany and Europe

The coming year may be crucial both for Germany and for all countries of the European Union (EU). German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced this in his New Year's address on December 31.

"This may be the year when Germany and Europe are once again approaching decades of peace, freedom and prosperity <...> For this, we must trust ourselves, our courage and aspiration," the Tagesschau portal quotes the contents of his message.

The Chancellor said that his country is rethinking its position again and again, and is also trying to overcome crises. He stressed that Germany is not a "game ball" of the great powers or a victim of "external circumstances."

Merz said that Germany "will have to decide on fundamental reforms next year so that social systems remain financially viable in the long term," and also acknowledged that the regulations adopted by the federal government were insufficient in 2025.