German Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a stern warning regarding Europe's security, comparing Russian President Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler and stating that Russia "will not stop" in the event that Ukraine is defeated.

Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, has raised an alarm regarding the security of Europe, comparing Russia's actions to those of Hitler during the interwar period. In a speech in Munich, he emphasized that Russia will not stop its aggression if Ukraine falls, similar to how Hitler continued expansion after the cession of the Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia. Merz stated that the era of "Pax Americana" has come to an end, and the European Union must take responsibility for its own defense. He highlighted the importance of maintaining NATO unity and investing in European defense capabilities. Additionally, Merz criticized the perception that the United States will continue to guarantee stability in Europe, indicating a tectonic shift in global power. In the context of criticisms directed at the European Union by the American administration, Merz emphasized that Europeans must protect their interests and strengthen democracy.