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 stated that 'our freedom is not guaranteed' in an era dominated by big power politics, urging Europeans to be ready to make significant sacrifices.
Merz also acknowledged that a 'deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States', referencing earlier controversies surrounding US President Donald Trump's threats against Denmark's sovereignty and protectionist tariff policies toward European nations.
As anticipation builds for US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming address, Merz's cautionary remarks come at a crucial time when US commitments to NATO are under scrutiny. The conference will include discussions on European defense and the future of transatlantic relations amidst the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and tensions with China.
'We must be blunt about it: this order, however imperfect, no longer exists in its previous form,' he said. He suggested that attempts to repair transatlantic trust are essential as the geopolitical landscape shifts.
Merz's speech matches Rubio's earlier statements on the changing world dynamics and highlights the need for collective reassessment of roles among nations. He also noted that ongoing 'confidential talks' with French President Macron regarding a potential European nuclear deterrent underscores Europe's desire for greater autonomy in defense matters, traditionally reliant on the US nuclear umbrella.
As the summit progresses, the issues surrounding US claims to Greenland and the evolving nature of US-EU relations are expected to dominate discussions.
Merz also acknowledged that a 'deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States', referencing earlier controversies surrounding US President Donald Trump's threats against Denmark's sovereignty and protectionist tariff policies toward European nations.
As anticipation builds for US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming address, Merz's cautionary remarks come at a crucial time when US commitments to NATO are under scrutiny. The conference will include discussions on European defense and the future of transatlantic relations amidst the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and tensions with China.
'We must be blunt about it: this order, however imperfect, no longer exists in its previous form,' he said. He suggested that attempts to repair transatlantic trust are essential as the geopolitical landscape shifts.
Merz's speech matches Rubio's earlier statements on the changing world dynamics and highlights the need for collective reassessment of roles among nations. He also noted that ongoing 'confidential talks' with French President Macron regarding a potential European nuclear deterrent underscores Europe's desire for greater autonomy in defense matters, traditionally reliant on the US nuclear umbrella.
As the summit progresses, the issues surrounding US claims to Greenland and the evolving nature of US-EU relations are expected to dominate discussions.
