The rules-based world order 'no longer exists', German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned world leaders at a major security summit. Opening the annual Munich Security Conference, he said 'our freedom is not guaranteed' in an era of big power politics, and Europeans must be ready to make 'sacrifice'.
Merz also admitted that 'a deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States', referencing US President Trump’s combative policies and rhetoric. Furthermore, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, attending the conference, spoke of a 'new era in geopolitics', highlighting the urgency for re-evaluation of alliances and positions.
The conference will witness participation from around 50 world leaders, focusing on discussions about European defense and the transatlantic relationship. Concerns have been raised about US commitments to NATO, especially against the backdrop of Trump's controversial comments regarding Greenland.
Merz expressed fears about the collapse of the rules-based order, saying it no longer exists 'in that form'. He mentioned the cultural and political divides that have affected the partnership between Europe and the US, while still advocating for the repair and revival of transatlantic trust. He also hinted at ongoing confidential talks with Macron about a possible joint European nuclear deterrent, a significant shift for Europe that has traditionally relied on US security guarantees.
Merz also admitted that 'a deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States', referencing US President Trump’s combative policies and rhetoric. Furthermore, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, attending the conference, spoke of a 'new era in geopolitics', highlighting the urgency for re-evaluation of alliances and positions.
The conference will witness participation from around 50 world leaders, focusing on discussions about European defense and the transatlantic relationship. Concerns have been raised about US commitments to NATO, especially against the backdrop of Trump's controversial comments regarding Greenland.
Merz expressed fears about the collapse of the rules-based order, saying it no longer exists 'in that form'. He mentioned the cultural and political divides that have affected the partnership between Europe and the US, while still advocating for the repair and revival of transatlantic trust. He also hinted at ongoing confidential talks with Macron about a possible joint European nuclear deterrent, a significant shift for Europe that has traditionally relied on US security guarantees.
