Merz links wildfire to climate change, visits affected German town amid protests

Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that the recent wildfire in Hürtgenwald, a town in the Eifel region, is a direct consequence of climate change. Speaking during a visit to the heavily impacted district of Gey, Merz stated, "We must expect to have more such events. This is climate change." He directly addressed climate change deniers, urging them to "look closely at what happened here." Merz acknowledged that while efforts will be made to curb climate change, "we must also live with climate change." He emphasized that preparing for this reality is a shared responsibility of the federal government, states, and municipalities.

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We must expect to have more such events. This is climate change.

Merz's visit to Hürtgenwald-Gey was met with protests from about two dozen demonstrators. Chants and whistles could be heard during his statement. He responded to the disruptions by saying, "I will not be impressed by those who shout around. I speak with those who do not shout, but I speak with those who work." He clarified that he was engaging with individuals actively helping the community.

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And I want to say to all deniers of climate change: Look closely at what happened here.

The timing of Merz's visit, which occurred only after firefighting efforts concluded, also drew criticism. Protest signs read, "The forest is burning and Friedrich is sleeping" and "You're coming now? Too late." Merz explained that he had spoken with District Administrator Ralf Nolten multiple times over the previous weekend and offered to visit. However, Nolten advised him to come later. Nolten recounted that Merz had asked for his assessment, to which he replied, "If you drive into the operational area, we cannot extinguish for two to three hours." He quoted a local firefighter saying, "I don't need politicians, I need people who hold the hose." Nolten and Merz then agreed that "there are also days afterward."

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I will not be impressed by those who shout around. I speak with those who do not shout, but I speak with those who work.

Responding to whistles directed at Merz, Nolten urged the protesters to channel their negative energy positively by joining organizations like the THW, fire department, or DRK. He stated that the emergency responders had done their job and would appreciate the Chancellor's visit. Merz expressed gratitude to all helpers, highlighting the "great organizations" involved, including firefighters, the THW, the Bundeswehr, and those from agriculture and forestry. He underscored the importance of volunteer work in ensuring the situation did not end more tragically.

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If you drive into the operational area, we cannot extinguish for two to three hours.