00:00German Chancellor Friedrich Merz say Europe must assert its interests more forcefully
00:05to protect peace and prosperity in the year ahead.
00:09In his annual address, Merz warned that Europe is under growing pressure from Russian aggression,
00:15rising global protectionism and more complex relations with the United States.
00:22He said the war on Europe's doorstep poses a direct threat to the continent's freedom and security,
00:28arguing that Russia's actions are part of a broader strategy targeting Europe, not just Ukraine.
00:34Merz also warned that global protectionism is intensifying,
00:37saying dependence on imported raw materials is increasingly being used as a form of political leverage.
00:44He added that ties with the United States have become more challenging
00:47since President Donald Trump returned to office, pointing to the impact of new trade tariffs.
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