Germany Defense Readiness at the Center of Merz’s Foreign Policy

For the first time in a quarter century, a German chancellor has opened the annual gathering of all 230 ambassadors in Berlin. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has been increasingly described as Germany’s “foreign chancellor,” used the occasion to underline that foreign policy is now inseparable from Germany’s economic and security strategy. The last time such a meeting had a chancellor’s direct involvement was in 2000, when Gerhard Schröder addressed the conference.

Merz’s appearance signaled a decisive shift. In his speech, he described a world order where established assumptions are breaking down and warned that Germany can no longer afford to see itself as protected from external threats. He emphasized that Germany is not an island, despite being geographically surrounded by allies, and must acknowledge the challenges brought by global instability.

The Axis of Autocracies and Security Demands

Merz presented a sobering analysis of what he called a new systemic conflict. On one side, liberal democracies; on the other, an “axis of autocracies,” primarily led by China and Russia, openly challenging democratic systems. He warned that Germany had become complacent in believing foreign wars and aggression would not reach its borders. That mindset, he argued, must be abandoned.

For Merz, strengthening Germany’s defense readiness is not only a national requirement but also an obligation to its European partners. As the strongest economy on the continent, Germany must take responsibility for ensuring European stability. This is not, he stressed, about arrogance but about the geopolitical reality of Germany’s position. Defense, trade, and diplomacy now intersect more directly than ever.

Domestic Support and International Criticism

While some critics have accused Merz of focusing too heavily on international affairs at the expense of domestic concerns, his coalition partner, the Social Democrats (SPD), has largely welcomed the approach. SPD foreign policy spokesman Adis Ahmetovic emphasized the importance of direct coordination between parliament and the chancellor in light of global conflicts, describing the cooperation as effective.

International observers, however, note a different challenge. Wolfgang Ischinger, former German ambassador to the United States and the United Kingdom, argued that Germany’s global reputation suffers less from instability and more from its hesitation to innovate and lack of boldness. While Germany is still perceived abroad as a prosperous and steady country, its unwillingness to adapt quickly may weaken its position in a shifting world order.

Germany’s Role in Europe and Beyond

Merz insists that foreign policy is no longer the domain of a few specialists but instead the foundation of every other policy area, especially economics. For him, defense readiness, trade security, and diplomatic initiatives all serve the same strategic goal: protecting Germany’s export-oriented economy and ensuring European strength.

Germany’s increased visibility has already been felt. Merz has stood alongside major leaders on the international stage, from US President Donald Trump to French President Emmanuel Macron, and continues to play a leading role in NATO discussions. His government has also pushed for stronger European unity in foreign and security policy.

Expanding Global Partnerships with Brazil

Germany’s evolving strategy is not limited to Europe and North America. In a recent phone call, Merz and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva discussed deepening bilateral cooperation. Their conversation covered trade, climate policy, energy transition, and joint efforts to defend democracy. Lula confirmed that Brazil will serve as the guest country at the 2026 Hanover Industrial Fair, with more than 160 companies represented.

Both leaders expressed support for finalizing the MERCOSUR–European Union trade agreement later this year, a deal designed to boost trade and reinforce multilateral cooperation. They also emphasized shared commitments to tackling climate change, with Germany confirming its high-level participation in COP30, which will take place in Belém.

Diplomacy, Interests, and the Future of Defense

Even as Merz shifts the rhetoric toward pragmatic interests, German diplomats stress that their core mission remains unchanged. Diplomacy has always been about representing national interests while promoting stability and cooperation. What has changed, according to observers, is the frequency and intensity of direct involvement from the chancellor himself.

Germany’s defense readiness now sits at the center of its broader foreign policy. By combining economic strategy, environmental cooperation, and commitments to European and global security, Berlin is presenting itself as both a stabilizer and a leader. Whether this renewed approach will be enough to address the growing pressures of a fractured international order remains to be seen, but Germany is making clear that it intends to play a decisive role.