A full-blown power struggle is erupting between Berlin and Brussels. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is openly challenging Ursula von der Leyen’s push for a centralized EU model, blasting her €2 trillion budget plan and accusing the Commission of “overreach” on trade, defense, and green policy. Merz vowed to “put a stick in the wheels” of Brussels’ ambitions, insisting Berlin should lead Europe’s rearmament projects and keep control over arms purchases. Analysts warn the rift could fracture EU unity, giving Moscow breathing room as Europe squabbles internally over policy and power.