The Munich Security Conference has provided a platform for top officials to discuss pressing global security issues. At the event, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte drew comparisons between the slow Russian advance in Ukraine and a 'garden snail', emphasizing the sluggishness of their military progress. This metaphor illustrates the perception among Western leaders regarding the Russian strategy in the conflict, portraying it as ineffective in the face of Ukrainian resistance and Western support.

In his keynote address, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed the need for a foreign policy more focused on European interests, indicating a distancing from U.S. influence while maintaining a commitment to NATO. Merz noted that the transatlantic partnership has lost some of its innateness, referring to a growing divide in priorities and approaches between Europe and the United States. This shift reflects a broader sentiment among European leaders towards a more independent stance in global affairs.

The liveblog serves to update readers on the ongoing discussions, including topics such as nuclear deterrence, with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius affirming continued collaboration with the U.S. on this critical issue. As the conference progresses, the emphasis on European defense strategies and geopolitical alignment signals a significant moment in European foreign policy, potentially reshaping relationships both within the continent and across the Atlantic.