Merz: The Post-War Order No Longer Exists, Europe Needs Sovereignty

Germany - Ekhbary News Agency

Merz: The Post-War Order No Longer Exists, Europe Needs Sovereignty

The recent Munich Security Conference witnessed a series of pivotal discussions that underscored the profound geopolitical transformation currently underway on the international stage. At the heart of these deliberations was the clarion call from Friedrich Merz, leader of the German opposition and chairman of the CDU party, for a fundamental reassessment of the global order. Merz emphatically stated that 'the post-war order no longer exists,' emphasizing Europe's urgent need to become a truly sovereign entity, capable of defending its interests and shaping its own future in an increasingly multipolar world.

Merz's remarks resonate within a broader context where European leaders are increasingly advocating for strategic autonomy. French President Emmanuel Macron powerfully echoed this sentiment, asserting that 'there will be no peace without Europeans, rest assured.' Macron called for reopening 'a transparent channel of communication' with the Russians in cooperation with Americans and Ukrainians, indicating that Europe, in the event of peace in Ukraine, 'will have to define the rules of coexistence' with Russia. He also defended Europe as an 'example' to be followed, rejecting criticisms that portray it as an 'aged, slow, and fragmented construct,' affirming its resilience and vital role.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remained central to many deliberations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Merz to discuss joint arms production projects and diplomatic efforts. Zelensky expressed gratitude for Germany's support, particularly in providing air defense systems, and highlighted the 'first important results of joint drone production between Ukraine and Germany.' He also alluded to the possibility of holding elections 'as quickly as possible' in Ukraine if former US President Donald Trump were to push Russian President Vladimir Putin towards a lasting ceasefire.

Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the 'Berlin format's' commitment to a free and sovereign Ukraine. She pledged to provide 'robust security guarantees after the end of hostilities,' with a crucial role for US support and monitoring. Von der Leyen stressed that Europe is 'intensifying its direct support,' citing a €90 billion loan to keep the Ukrainian state functioning, while simultaneously strengthening air defense systems and boosting defense capabilities. She added that 'Europe is also increasing the cost of the war for Russia through our twentieth package of sanctions,' aiming to ensure Ukraine can negotiate peace on its own terms.

The American interaction with these European dynamics was a subject of close observation. The participation of US Senator Marco Rubio at the conference drew attention. While earlier reports suggested his absence from meetings with European counterparts due to 'scheduling conflicts,' interpreted by some as a sign of 'Washington's growing disinterest in involving them in the peace process,' he later met with Merz. A note attributed to the US State Department reported that Senator Rubio and Merz 'discussed urgent global challenges, including supply chain security, advancing efforts to end the war between Russia and Ukraine, and strengthening the partnership between the United States and Europe.' Rubio expressed appreciation for Germany's strong support for Ukraine, including over $76 billion in aid since 2022.

Discussions also touched upon the nature of modern threats. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chairman of NATO's military committee, stated that Russia 'spends $2 billion a year on cognitive warfare.' He suggested that NATO 'could start talking about preventive actions' in the hybrid warfare sphere when it comes to saving lives, should there be indications of an imminent attack. In a separate development, Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov announced upcoming rounds of negotiations between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine in Geneva, signaling a parallel diplomatic track.

In conclusion, the Munich Security Conference underscored that the world is navigating a critical transition. As Europe strives to assert its sovereignty and bolster its defense capabilities in the face of ongoing conflicts and geopolitical challenges, international partnerships remain crucial. The call for a strong and united Europe, coupled with persistent diplomatic efforts and support for Ukraine, paints a complex picture for the future of global security.

Ekhbary News Agency