The rise of ‘Merzoni’: How an alliance between Germany’s and Italy’s leaders is reshaping Europe

The center of gravity in Europe is increasingly aligning along a Rome-Berlin axis.

By: Julia Khrebtan-Hörhager, Colorado State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 11, 2026

Words: 1,393

Last Updated: 1 month ago

Body Text Preview

By Julia Khrebtan-Hörhager, Colorado State University

“Merzoni” isn’t a neologism that easily trips off the tongue, and it hasn’t fully taken hold in the world of European politics.

Yet, for months, a pragmatic alliance between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been building.

And despite the politicians being, in many ways, unlikely partners, the union has quietly been redefining Europe’s power balance. In the latest display of this …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us