Merz's First Government Statement: State-Men Instead of Attackful

As Chancellor, Merz sets new tone. In his first declaration of government, he focuses on foreign policy. He covers the issues at issue in the coalition. By Corinna Emundts.

In his first government declaration, Chancellor Merz promises to be self-evident. However, since nothing is taken for granted in these times, that could be more than it appears at first.

Friedrich Merz sharply criticizes, among other things, Habeck's climate policy and the bureaucracy in Brussels in his first government declaration.

Chancellor Merz made his first government statement in the Bundestag. "We have seen the statesman Friedrich Merz – German leadership is back," says Union leader Jens Spahn.

Listen on Spotify Apple Music Amazon Music Together with Rasmus Buchsteiner, Gordon Repinski provides a quick analysis of Friedrich Merz's first detailed speech as Chancellor before the Bundestag. Merz strikes a decidedly conciliatory tone in his government statement. In this update, you'll hear how the Chancellor speaks a lot about "his own strength" – while simultaneously managing to go from the big picture to the details. There's also an…

Friedrich Merz's first declaration of government was not fireworks, but a demonstration of power. As chancellor, he talks no different – but is heard differently.