A New German Resolve: Merz Contrasts with Scholz in Ukraine Crisis

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is demonstrating a new resolve in Berlin’s foreign policy as he joins European leaders in Washington to back Ukraine. His sure-footed presence and decisive partnership with Volodymyr Zelenskyy stand in stark contrast to the often slow-moving approach of his predecessor, Olaf Scholz, which frequently frustrated Kyiv.
Merz is a key member of the “bodyguard” delegation supporting Zelenskyy against an anticipated push from Donald Trump for a pro-Russia peace deal. Since taking office in May, Merz has cut a confident figure on the world stage, and his performance in the Oval Office will be a crucial test of his leadership.
Having already held his own in a previous meeting with Trump, Merz’s task is to use Germany’s significant clout as an EU pillar and a major financial donor to persuade the US president not to act hastily. His core message is that any decisions must be made in full consultation with European allies, not “over the heads of Ukrainians and Europeans.”
Alongside his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, Merz represents the powerful Franco-German engine of the EU. His firm stance provides a solid anchor for the European position, reinforcing the message that a peace deal rewarding Russian aggression is unacceptable to the continent’s leading powers.