At a security conference held in Germany, European leaders expressed strong criticism of Donald Trump’s foreign policy and underscored the necessity for Europe to lessen its reliance on the United States. The German Chancellor highlighted that the traditional global order based on rules and rights is deteriorating, pointing to the increasing military presence of China and the widening rift between the U.S. and Europe. Friedrich Merz, a key political figure at the conference, emphasized the importance of European allies seeking greater autonomy from American influence.

The conference gathered numerous global leaders, and the official report served as a guide to the discussions at hand. It noted a growing trend among leaders who are opting to dismantle existing institutions rather than reform them, with Donald Trump being cited as the most prominent example of this contemporary political phenomenon. The atmosphere at the conference reflected a collective concern among European leaders regarding the stability and future of international relations, particularly in the context of shifting power dynamics on the global stage.

The criticisms levied against Trump’s approach to foreign policy align with a broader call for increased European self-sufficiency. With the rising influence of countries like China and the potential decline of traditional alliances, European leaders are seeking to redefine their stance in global affairs. The discussions at the conference highlighted a pivotal moment for Europe, as it grapples with the implications of a changing geopolitical landscape and the need for a more independent foreign policy strategy.