Overview

• Chancellor Friedrich Merz asserted that Germany's intensified border controls comply with EU law and are not unilateral, addressing criticism from EU partners and neighboring states.
• Merz called for the abolition of the EU supply-chain directive, aligning it with plans to repeal Germany's corresponding national law, citing concerns over excessive bureaucracy.
• He reiterated Germany's opposition to large-scale joint EU borrowing, emphasizing that common debt should remain an exception, particularly regarding defense funding.
• Merz expressed optimism about a 30-day Ukraine ceasefire proposed by the US, highlighting potential progress toward negotiations with Russia.
• In meetings with top EU and NATO officials, Merz pledged Germany's renewed leadership in Europe, aiming to end Berlin's previous pattern of abstention and indecision in EU matters.