As someone from southern Europe, I’m tempted to feel some satisfaction after Schäuble and Merkel pushed us to the brink between 2008 and 2012. But if there’s one lesson we should have learned since then, it’s that we’re all in this together. I believe Germany should focus its national efforts—supported by the EU if needed—on achieving strong energy independence and reclaiming its position as a symbol of industrial excellence. Anything else will just lead to a lower quality of life for all of us.