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

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete February 13, 2026 at 07:52 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

At the Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that the "rules-based world order" no longer exists, citing a growing divide between Europe and the United States. Merz warned that European freedom is not guaranteed and called for sacrifice amid big power politics. The conference, attended by approximately 50 world leaders, is addressing European defense, the transatlantic relationship, the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions with China, and a potential Iran-US nuclear deal. Discussions are taking place against the backdrop of strained US-European relations, including former President Trump's past threats regarding Greenland and tariffs. Merz criticized the "Maga" movement's culture war and protectionist policies, while reaffirming the importance of free trade.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

UK 30% Denmark 40% Marco Rubio 40% North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) 50% JD Vance ×250% Greenland ×360% Europe ×470% Donald Trump ×270% Germany 70% United States ×380% Munich Security Conference ×280% Friedrich Merz ×590%

Keywords

rules-based order 100% munich security conference 90% transatlantic relationship 80% europe 70% united states 70% geopolitics 60% european defence 50% free trade 50% big power politics 40%