In a general debate in the Bundestag, Chancellor Friedrich Merz prepared Germans for far-reaching reforms in the coming months, describing the current moment as a turning point for the country’s future.
“Our nation faces important decisions this autumn,” Merz declared on 17 September 2025, stressing that Germany must “choose the right path at this historic moment.” He added that the decisions ahead concern not just policy details, but fundamental questions about how Germans live, work, do business, and uphold their values.
Reform Agenda and Economic Challenges
Merz presented himself as a reformist chancellor, highlighting the need to restructure Germany’s pension system in light of demographic changes. He warned that younger generations must not be overburdened and insisted that freedom and security are increasingly under threat.
The chancellor also cautioned that Germany’s economic model is under pressure from new waves of protectionism targeting free trade and open markets.
Foreign Policy and Ukraine
On the war in Ukraine, Merz said it must end—but emphasized that peace should not come at the cost of Ukraine’s sovereignty or territorial integrity. He warned that a settlement dictated by Russia would only embolden Vladimir Putin to pursue further aggression, adding that Putin “sabotages, spies, kills, and spreads insecurity.”
Merz also stressed that the traditional separation between domestic and foreign policy is now “outdated,” as external threats directly impact Germany’s internal stability.
Criticism from Opposition Parties
- Alice Weidel, leader of the far-right AfD, accused Merz of breaking campaign promises and “fueling the war” in Ukraine. Unlike his July debate, Merz avoided direct confrontation with her.
- Katharina Dröge of the Greens criticized Merz’s economic policies as a “bitter disappointment” for businesses, calling for lower energy taxes.
- Heidi Reichinnek, leader of The Left, demanded a “poverty-proof minimum wage” and redistribution of resources “from top to bottom,” instead of cuts to social support programs.
