German Chancellor Merz warns of 20th-century parallels in Davos remarks

At Davos, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Germany's 20th-century trajectory ended in catastrophe and linked that history to today's great‑power tensions; he outlined priorities including a planned increase in defence spending and measures to boost European competitiveness.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz spoke at the Davos forum about rapid shifts in global power and referred to Germany's 20th‑century experience as a cautionary example. He described a new era of great‑power politics shaped by Russia's war in Ukraine and China's rise, and said these changes affect freedom, security, and prosperity. Merz set out policy goals for his new government, highlighting higher defence spending, economic reform, and stronger European unity. He also noted support for transatlantic talks on cooperation in the High North. Key points: - Merz said Germany's 20th‑century path ended in catastrophe and used that history as a warning when discussing current global rivalry. - He described the world as entering a new era of great‑power politics, citing Russia's war in Ukraine and China's growing influence. - The government has announced plans to raise Germany's defence spending (Merz referenced an increase up to 5% of GDP) and to pursue economic and regulatory reforms. - EU leaders are set to meet at a special summit on February 12 to address bureaucracy and competitiveness in the single market. Summary: Merz framed recent geopolitical shifts as requiring stronger defence capacity, greater competitiveness, and closer European cooperation. The government intends to increase defence spending and advance an agenda of economic reform, while EU leaders will convene on February 12 to discuss related proposals and regulatory changes.