Germany’s new government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) since the February 2025 elections, is poised to reinvigorate the Weimar Triangle—an alliance of Germany, France, and Poland established in 1991 to bolster European security. With Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and uncertainties surrounding U.S. commitment under President Trump, Merz’s administration is prioritizing a stronger European defense framework, focusing on the Weimar Triangle to counter regional threats and unify EU policy.
Merz has signaled a shift from Germany’s historically cautious stance under Olaf Scholz, who faced criticism for hesitancy in supporting Ukraine. The new government’s bold moves include suspending the debt brake for defense spending above 1% of GDP, unlocking up to €600 billion over 14 years for military modernization, including air defense systems and a brigade deployment to Lithuania—Germany’s first since World War II. This financial flexibility, paired with Merz’s commitment to a unified EU voice, aims to strengthen the Weimar Triangle’s role in coordinating support for Ukraine and deterring Russia.
France and Poland, key Weimar partners, are aligning with Germany’s vision. French President Emmanuel Macron’s push for European sovereignty and Poland’s increased defense spending (4.7% of GDP in 2025) complement Merz’s plans. The Triangle’s revival could streamline EU defense initiatives, like the European Sky Shield, and foster “minilateral” cooperation with non-EU allies like the UK. However, domestic resistance to debt reform and coalition tensions with the Social Democrats (SPD) could challenge Merz’s ambitions.
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