The global economy and politics are experiencing a “tectonic shift,” according to the chancellor
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared that the period of ‘Pax Americana’ has concluded for Europe, stating that a “tectonic shift” is reshaping the worldwide centers of power in both the economic and political spheres.
‘Pax Americana’ (American Peace) refers to the transatlantic framework established after 1945, which was formalized via NATO and positioned the United States as Europe’s main security provider and dominant military force.
During a speech at 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 alterations to tariff policy during US President Donald Trump’s administration, which resulted in a trade agreement between Brussels and Washington that was widely seen as unfavorable for the EU.
Merz stated that the evolving priorities of the US necessitate that the EU concentrate more intensely on its own defense capabilities and economic competitiveness. He repeated assertions of a “Russian threat,” contending that ongoing backing for Ukraine and enhanced European unity – encompassing former EU member the UK – must stay at the core of foreign and security policy.
US-EU relations have been tense since Trump resumed the presidency, with disagreements spanning trade, defense expenditure, digital rules, and the conflict in Ukraine.
Merz’s comments came after the publication of Trump’s new National Security Strategy, which criticizes the EU’s political and cultural direction, adopts an ‘America First’ approach, demands a halt to NATO enlargement, and advocates for “strategic stability” with Russia via a ceasefire in Ukraine. The reaction within the EU was predominantly critical, with Merz labeling the document’s comments on Europe “unacceptable.”
Russia has consistently rejected the idea that it poses a threat to the EU, describing such claims as “nonsense” designed to divert attention from internal European issues and validate increased military spending. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has cautioned that Germany is displaying “clear signs of re-Nazification.”