German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urges embrace of reforms and boosts defence support for Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended his government's reform agenda, calling on politicians and citizens to “embrace the change” and contribute to the common good. He warned that the country must act quickly to pass legislation on pensions, the labour market and income tax before the summer recess.

Merz also stressed the need for Europe to strengthen its defence capabilities and reaffirmed Berlin’s commitment to support Ukraine “for as long as needed.” He urged Iran to abandon its nuclear programme and said Israel’s security must be guaranteed for any settlement with Iran. The chancellor called for a fundamental modernisation of the EU budget, rejected the creation of new debt and promised continued German support for Ukraine in negotiations involving the United States, Russia and the European Union.