Germany marked the 70th anniversary of its accession to NATO with a series of events in Berlin attended by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Chancellor Merz emphasized the importance of Germany's NATO membership in ensuring freedom and security for three generations, describing the value of peace as priceless. He reaffirmed Germany's commitment to playing a leading role within the alliance, particularly in strengthening NATO's European pillar in the coming years. During the commemorations, Rutte acknowledged Germany's pivotal role in the alliance and its ongoing support for Ukraine. The discussions also referenced key decisions made at the recent NATO summit, highlighting Germany's leadership ambitions in European defense. Merz's statements about Germany becoming a leading power in Europe have elicited mixed reactions, including some reservations from France. Overall, the anniversary underscored Germany's strategic importance within NATO and its dedication to collective defense and deterrence capabilities.