Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, announced with the aim of reassuring European allies and Kyiv that his domestic political weakness would not affect the government's support for Ukraine. This comes as the war in Ukraine heads into its fifth winter.
Merz's warnings about Russian threats
Merz also tried to convey to German voters who are skeptical about military support for Ukraine that continuing this support is in their direct interest. He warned that if Germany and its allies do not remain united in supporting Kyiv, they may face a military attack from Russia in the future. In a speech at an event in the city of Mönchengladbach, he said: "If we cannot control Moscow, the Russian war machine will sooner or later turn against us and NATO."
Merz's stance against the far-right party
Merz's comments came after the far-right party "Alternative for Germany" (AfD) achieved its best electoral results in history and came in first place in two regional votes in eastern Germany. In contrast, the Christian Democratic Union, which Merz leads, suffered historic defeats. The weaknesses of Merz's party have been heavily attributed to him, leading to internal discussions about the possibility of replacing him in his party.
The rising popularity of the AfD, which is politically close to the Kremlin, has raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe. This party seeks to end military support for Ukraine and rebuild economic and energy relations with Moscow, and according to polls, it is considered the most popular party in Germany.
On Thursday, Merz specifically attacked the AfD, describing it as a channel for Moscow's influence. He emphasized that his government would continue to support Ukraine, despite the hybrid attacks and information campaigns directed from Moscow and disseminated through the slogans of the AfD and its Russian supporters.
At the event, Hendrik Wüst, the Prime Minister of North Rhine-Westphalia, who is mentioned as a potential candidate to replace Merz, praised the Chancellor's leadership in this critical situation. He commended Merz's clear commitment to the NATO defense spending target of 5 percent, saying: "Chancellor Friedrich Merz played a pivotal role in NATO during a critical time. While others hesitated, the Chancellor of Germany has stood firm on his path, thereby providing stability to the alliance."
Concerns about support for Ukraine
While Merz and Wüst tried to convey stability and determination to international audiences, many of Merz's statements were aimed at convincing German voters to continue military support for Ukraine. Many Germans are still concerned about the possibility of a Russian attack on NATO territory. According to a recent poll for German public television, 42 percent of respondents said that military support for Ukraine is excessive, the highest recorded level. Opponents of military support for Ukraine are particularly prominent in eastern Germany, where the AfD is strongest.
Merz concluded by saying: "Ukraine must get through this winter, and I am confident they will. They can count on our assistance." He added: "If we hesitate in Germany, Europe will hesitate. If we stand firm, Europe will also stand firm."
