During the opening of the Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz conveyed a critical message to former President Donald Trump, asserting that the United States can no longer act independently and may have diminished its status as a global leader. Merz emphasized the necessity for Europe to develop a robust self-sufficient security strategy, highlighting his discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding potential cooperation under France's nuclear defense umbrella.

Merz's address pointedly criticized the existing international order, claiming that it has fundamentally changed and that the US has reached its limits in pursuing unilateral action. He acknowledged that the current geopolitical climate has shifted and suggested that past frameworks for global order may no longer be applicable. His comments expressed concern over the fragility of international rules and the necessity for greater collaboration among European nations to counterbalance external threats.

By articulating these viewpoints in English, Merz aimed to ensure his message was clear and impactful to a broader audience, emphasizing the pressing need for unity and partnership in transatlantic relations. His remarks serve as a reminder of the evolving dynamics in global politics and the critical role that Europe must play in shaping its security future, especially in light of perceived waning American influence.