The Funeral of the Global Order
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that the post-war global order no longer exists and attributed its decline largely to Russia's actions in Ukraine, advocating for a transatlantic reset between the EU and the US.
During the opening of the Security Conference in Munich, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the old post-war global order has ceased to exist. He highlighted the significant gap between the European Union and the United States, emphasizing the need for a transatlantic reset. Merz pointed out that Russia is primarily responsible for the death of this order and insists that the war in Ukraine will only end when Russia is compelled to engage in serious peace discussions, which he believes will happen only after exhausting its economic and military resources.
In this context, Merz urged European countries, particularly Germany, to persist in actions that push Russia to its limits, implying that a strong stance is necessary to restore some form of stability. This perspective aligns with that of French President Emmanuel Macron, who also spoke at the conference. Macron echoed the sentiment that Western nations should maintain their support for Ukraine and continue to exert pressure on Russia until it withdraws, indicating a prolonged conflict in Europe.
The implications of these statements reflect the significant geopolitical shifts occurring as Western leaders confront the challenges posed by Russia. By calling for a united front against Russia, Merz and Macron are highlighting the need for a concerted effort to address not only the immediate threats of the conflict but also the broader implications for global diplomacy and security. The discussion at the conference underscores a critical moment in international relations, where the future of the global order is being redefined amidst rising tensions.