MWE Correspondent
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared that the era of American dominance in Europe has largely come to an end, arguing that the United States is increasingly focused on pursuing its own national interests.
Merz said the relationship between Europe and Washington had fundamentally changed and that the traditional role played by the United States could no longer be taken for granted.
“The era of American dominance is largely over for us in Europe, and in Germany as well. It no longer exists as we knew it. The Americans are now aggressively pursuing their own interests.”
His remarks reflect growing debate in Europe over the continent’s future security and strategic independence as transatlantic relations undergo significant changes.
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Merz has previously argued that Europe must become stronger and more sovereign while maintaining cooperation with the United States. In a policy statement earlier this year, he said Germany’s future was closely linked to a strong and sovereign Europe and called for greater European resilience in economic, technological and security matters.
The comments come amid broader European efforts to reduce dependence on Washington and strengthen the continent’s ability to act independently on defence, trade and foreign policy. A 2026 analysis by Germany’s Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik similarly argued that the post-war security order built around U.S. leadership is coming to an end, requiring Europe to rethink its relationship with Washington.
Merz’s remarks are therefore likely to fuel further discussion about whether Europe should pursue greater strategic autonomy while preserving its longstanding alliance with the United States.
