In a significant speech at the Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that the long-standing rules-based international order, which was upheld by the United States, no longer exists. He warned that the structure that had maintained freedom for decades has become obsolete and that the current dominance of major powers like the US, China, and Russia poses a greater risk to European freedoms. Merz called for Europe to brace for sacrifices as it navigates this new geopolitical landscape.

Merz highlighted the importance of the Munich Security Conference as a crucial platform for addressing the evolving relationship between the US and Europe. He pointed out the fractures and deep divisions that have emerged, specifically referencing a previous speech by US Vice President JD Vance that openly called out these tensions. The backdrop of the conference is particularly charged due to renewed strains, as actions taken by former US President Donald Trump, including tariffs on European imports and expressions of intent regarding Greenland, have aggravated European sovereignty concerns.

In an assertive stance, Merz rejected any extremist populist movements from the US, distancing Germany from the 'Make America Great Again' campaign. He emphasized that cultural wars emerging from such movements do not align with European values, specifically highlighting that freedom of expression does not extend beyond undermining human dignity and constitutional rights. This clarity marks a critical moment in defining Europe's identity and aligns it against the currents of rising right-wing populism, both within and outside its borders.