Speaking to nearly 50 global leaders, Merz said that freedom and stability can no longer be taken for granted. According to him, the world has entered a period where big powers are competing openly, and international rules are weakening.
He explained his concerns in simple terms:
- The old global system is weakening: The international order created after World War II is not functioning the same way anymore.
- Freedom is not guaranteed: Countries must now work harder to protect democratic values.
- Europe must be ready to sacrifice: European nations may need to invest more in defence and security.
Merz said that even though the old system was never perfect, it at least provided structure and predictability. Today, he believes that structure is breaking down.
Growing Divide Between Europe and the US
One of the strongest parts of his speech was about the relationship between Europe and the United States. Merz admitted that a serious gap has developed between the two long-time allies.
This comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has raised tensions by threatening to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. Trump has also imposed tariffs on European imports, increasing trade tensions.
According to Merz:
- A “deep divide” has opened between Europe and America.
- Political and cultural differences have become more visible.
- Trust between allies has weakened in recent years.
Trump recently told reporters that the United States is negotiating regarding Greenland and suggested that it is important for US national security. These remarks have caused concern across Europe.
NATO and Security Concerns
Another key topic at the conference was the future of NATO, the military alliance that has protected Europe for decades. Some European leaders worry that US support for NATO may not be as strong as before.
For many years, European countries have relied on the US nuclear umbrella for protection. Now, Germany is reportedly holding confidential talks with France about the possibility of creating a shared European nuclear deterrent.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who also spoke at the event, said Europe must learn to act as a geopolitical power. He urged European nations to speed up their defence efforts and work more closely together.
Macron highlighted:
- Re-arming Europe: After Russia’s full invasion of Ukraine in 2022, many countries increased defence spending.
- Faster action needed: He believes Europe must move even quicker.
- Stand firm on Ukraine: He warned leaders not to give in to Russian demands.
War in Ukraine and Global Tensions
The Russia-Ukraine war remains a central issue in global politics. Leaders at the conference discussed how to achieve a fair and lasting peace without rewarding aggression.
Tensions between the West and China were also on the agenda, along with talks about a possible nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who attended the conference, described the present moment as a “new era in geopolitics.” He said the world is changing rapidly and that countries must rethink their roles and responsibilities.
Rubio’s comments added to the sense that the global balance of power is shifting. Many experts believe we are entering a period where competition between major powers will shape international politics.
Greenland Controversy Adds Pressure
One of the most sensitive issues discussed was Greenland. Trump has repeatedly said that Greenland is important for US national security. This has upset Denmark and other European allies.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she plans to meet Rubio to discuss the situation. Greenland is part of Denmark, which is a NATO member, so any attempt to take control of it would have serious consequences for the alliance.
Many European leaders see this issue as a turning point in transatlantic relations. It has raised questions about how strong the partnership between Europe and the US really is.
A Call to Repair Trust
Despite his criticism, Merz did not say that Europe should abandon the United States. Instead, he called for rebuilding trust and repairing the transatlantic partnership.
He stressed that Europe and America share a long history of cooperation and common values. However, he also made it clear that Europe must become stronger and more independent in defending its own interests.
In simple words, his message was clear:
- The world is entering a new and uncertain phase.
- Old global rules are no longer working as before.
- Europe must prepare to stand on its own if necessary.
- Trust with the US needs to be rebuilt carefully.
