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World's rules-based order 'no longer exists', Germany's Merz warns

February 13, 2026

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared at the Munich Security Conference that the rules-based international order has collapsed, warning that European freedom is no longer guaranteed in the current era of power politics. The conference is occurring amid severe transatlantic tensions, primarily driven by President Trump's threats to annex Greenland from NATO ally Denmark and impose tariffs on European imports. Merz acknowledged a fundamental divide between Europe and the United States, particularly regarding the MAGA movement's values, while still appealing for restored trust in the decades-long partnership.

Who is affected

  • European nations and their citizens
  • United States and its government
  • Denmark, specifically regarding Greenland sovereignty
  • Germany and France (nuclear deterrent discussions)
  • NATO member states
  • Ukraine (ongoing war discussion)
  • Russia and China (geopolitical tensions)
  • Approximately 50 world leaders attending the conference

What action is being taken

  • The Munich Security Conference is taking place with world leaders discussing European defense and transatlantic relations
  • Confidential talks are ongoing between Germany and France on creating a joint European nuclear deterrent
  • Europe is re-arming following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine
  • The US is negotiating for Greenland (according to Trump's statement)
  • Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss Greenland threats

Why it matters

  • This situation represents a fundamental shift in the post-World War II international order and the transatlantic alliance that has underpinned Western security for decades. The breakdown in trust between Europe and its largest ally threatens NATO's cohesion and stability at a time when multiple security challenges exist, including the Russia-Ukraine war and rising tensions with China. Trump's threats against a NATO ally's territory (Greenland) represent an unprecedented challenge to the principle of collective security, forcing European nations to reconsider their defense independence and potentially pursue their own nuclear deterrent, which would dramatically reshape the global security architecture.

What's next

  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio will deliver his speech on Saturday at the conference
  • Danish Prime Minister plans to meet with Rubio to discuss US threats regarding Greenland
  • Germany and France will continue confidential talks on creating a joint European nuclear deterrent
  • Europe will accelerate its re-armament efforts and work collectively across the continent

Read full article from source: BBC

World's rules-based order 'no longer exists', Germany's Merz warns