Where is Merz? German Chancellor's three-week absence sparks media debate

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's extended vacation has become a subject of intense media scrutiny, with his absence from public view stretching over three weeks since July 29. This prolonged break has fueled debate, particularly as it followed a significant security incident at Leipzig airport on August 5, where an armed drone, suspected to be Russian-linked, caused alarm.

While Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt immediately interrupted his own holiday to address the drone incident, Merz remained on leave. German media have offered varied interpretations of his silence. Der Spiegel noted that "a chancellor who says nothing also says nothing stupid," alluding to Merz's reputation for making controversial statements. The publication also contrasted his extended break with his recent calls for Germans to work harder.

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Have a good holiday, bye

Conversely, Die Welt, in a commentary titled "Friedrich Merz's Silence," defended the chancellor's holiday restraint, questioning whether he is obligated to react to every public debate. Speculation suggests Merz may have spent part of his vacation at his second home near Lake Tegernsee in Bavaria. His office has not disclosed specific details of his holiday plans, though he is reportedly in phone contact with staff and expected to attend government meetings in Berlin by late August.

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a chancellor who says nothing also says nothing stupid