Who is Freidrich Merz, the Likely Next Leader of Germany?

In light of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s vote of no confidence on Monday, the spotlight has intensified on Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and a leading contender to succeed Scholz. Merz has distinguished himself as an advocate for Ukraine in its fight against Russia. His vision for Germany’s role is grounded in the belief that more decisive action is necessary to aid Ukraine and bring the war to an end.

Merz has been vocal in his criticism of the Scholz government’s hesitancy to provide advanced military aid, particularly its long-range missiles, to Ukraine. On a recent trip to Kyiv on December 9, Merz said, “Without Taurus missiles, Ukraine is fighting with one hand tied behind its back.” He clarified that he did not mean to strike Russia’s civilian population or infrastructure, “but the military targets from which [Ukraine] is being attacked.”

Taurus Missile

The long-range missile in question is the Taurus KEPD 350 – a German-Swedish air-launched cruise missile renowned for its precision and stealth capabilities. Designed to engage targets deep within enemy territory, it boasts a range exceeding 500 kilometers and travels at speeds approaching 1,170 kilometers per hour- close to the speed of sound. Its low-altitude flight path, of approximately 35 meters, makes it difficult for radar systems to detect.

Without Taurus missiles, Ukraine is fighting with one hand tied behind its back.

Freidrich Merz

Another important feature of the Taurus missile is its advanced MEPHISTO warhead system, equipped with a Programmable Intelligent Multi-Purpose Fuze (PIMPF). This technology enables the missile to penetrate multiple layers of material and detonate within complex structures such as bridges or bunkers. In comparison to other Western-supplied missiles, such as the British Storm Shadow with a range of 250 kilometers, the Taurus offers a significantly extended reach and enhanced precision, making it a formidable asset for Ukraine.

A bold vision for Ukraine and Europe’s role in ending the war

Merz has gone further than just talk. He has proposed an ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin. He argued that if Russia does not halt its attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure within 24 hours, Germany should proceed with delivering Taurus missiles to Kyiv. He also supports providing Ukraine with combat aircraft, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming air superiority. “We Germans cannot stand aside,” Merz said, stressing the importance of this air support.

As Germany navigates a period of political uncertainty following Scholz’s ousting, Merz’s proactive stance on Ukraine is likely to shape his party’s platform in upcoming elections. His calls for a comprehensive European-led strategy to counter Russia, and his desire for greater solidarity with Ukraine, signal a shift towards a more assertive foreign policy than has been seen of late by the European power.

With Europe anticipating potential shifts in US foreign policy under Donald Trump’s administration, Friedrich Merz has proposed the creation of a European Contact Group to address the war in Ukraine. This coalition, involving Germany, France, Poland, and the United Kingdom, reflects Merz’s commitment to a unified and strategic approach to ending the war. His leadership could mark a turning point in Germany’s role on the global stage, particularly in its response to the ongoing war in Ukraine where it has thus far been notably reserved.