World’s rules-based order ‘no longer exists’, Germany’s Merz warns
World’s Rules-Based Order Faces Uncertainty, Says Germany’s Merz
At the annual Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz cautioned that the global system of rules-based governance has crumbled. The summit, held in a tense political climate, highlighted growing concerns over the erosion of shared international norms. Merz emphasized that European nations must brace themselves for significant sacrifices in an era dominated by powerful geopolitical actors.
US Actions Spark European Concerns
Amid rising tensions, US President Donald Trump’s assertive stance toward Denmark’s control of Greenland has intensified debates. His proposal to annex the Arctic territory, combined with import tariffs targeting European countries, has raised alarms about US commitment to NATO and transatlantic solidarity. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, set to address the conference on Saturday, noted the shifting dynamics in global politics, calling for a reevaluation of alliances and roles.
“Greenland’s gonna want us… We get along very well with Europe. We’ll see how it works out. We’re negotiating right now for Greenland.” — Donald Trump
Europe’s Strategic Shifts
With 50 world leaders in attendance, the conference spotlighted Europe’s evolving defense posture and its relationship with the United States. Merz highlighted a widening gap between Europe and the US, stating that the divide has become “deep” and “open.” He also referenced Vice-President JD Vance’s earlier remarks in Munich, asserting that the cultural conflict of the MAGA movement no longer aligns with European values.
Agenda and Future Prospects
The summit’s discussions include the Russia-Ukraine war, escalating tensions with China, and potential negotiations for an Iran-US nuclear deal. Merz reiterated that the rules-based order, once a cornerstone of international stability, is no longer intact. “This order, however imperfect it was even at its best, no longer exists in that form,” he stated. Despite the challenges, Merz urged the US to “repair and revive transatlantic trust,” signaling hope for renewed cooperation.
In parallel, French President Emmanuel Macron called for Europe to “learn to become a geopolitical power,” emphasizing the need for accelerated defense efforts. He noted that the Ukraine conflict represents an “existential challenge” for the continent and urged unity against Russian pressure. Meanwhile, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen planned to meet Rubio to discuss the US’s potential move to seize Greenland.
