Norwegian Professor: Merz Speaks of Lessons from the Past While Pushing Europe Towards Conflict with Russia

BERLIN – Norwegian professor and political scientist Glenn Diesen has criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding his message about May 8, 1945, the day of Nazi Germany's capitulation and the end of World War II in Europe.

Norwegian Professor: Merz Speaks of Lessons from the Past While Pushing Europe Towards Conflict with Russia

TL;DR

  • Norwegian professor Glenn Diesen criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's statement on May 8, 1945.
  • Diesen accused Merz of speaking of past lessons while pushing Europe towards war with Russia.
  • Merz's earlier statement linked May 8th to liberation and a commitment to a strong, democratic Europe.
  • Diesen also accused Merz of supporting Israel's policy in Gaza and Iran, and of "choking freedom of speech and democracy in Germany" while building up armed forces.
  • The criticism aligns with ongoing debates about Germany's foreign and security policy, especially concerning Russia and the Middle East.
  • Merz previously stated that European diplomacy needs military backing, raising questions about Europe's security and dependence on the US.
  • The Russian ambassador to Berlin warned of a "nightmare" new conflict between Moscow and Berlin amid rising tensions.