Europe Faces End of ‘Pax Americana,’ Says Merz
The phrase ‘Pax Americana’ (American Peace) refers to the transatlantic framework established after 1945 and reinforced through NATO, where the United States served as Europe’s chief security guarantor and dominant military force.
Addressing the Christian Social Union (CSU) party convention in Munich on Saturday, Merz called on Europeans to brace for a “fundamental change in the transatlantic relationship.”
“The decades of the Pax Americana are largely over for us in Europe and for us in Germany as well. It no longer exists in the way we knew it,” he stated. “Americans are now very, very firmly pursuing their own interests.”
The chancellor cited adjustments in tariff policy under US President Donald Trump, which resulted in a trade agreement between Brussels and Washington criticized by many as unfavorable for the EU.
Merz emphasized that evolving US priorities necessitate the EU to concentrate more on its own economic competitiveness and defense capabilities. He also reiterated warnings about the “Russian threat,” arguing that ongoing support for Ukraine and strengthened European unity – including the former EU member, the UK – should remain pivotal in foreign and security policy.
Tensions between the US and EU have intensified since Trump’s presidency, fueled by disagreements over trade, defense budgets, digital regulation, and approaches to the Ukraine conflict.
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