Rubio and European leaders say global order has shifted as U.S.-Europe divide grows

World leaders gathered at the Munich Security Conference are confronting what many describe as a major turning point in global politics, with officials on both sides of the Atlantic agreeing that the previous international order has fundamentally changed.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that the international system built on shared rules and cooperation is “no longer” intact, citing growing geopolitical rivalry and ongoing global conflicts. He said Europe’s freedom can no longer be taken for granted and called for stronger investment in defense and deterrence, particularly in response to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the sentiment before arriving at the conference, saying “the old world is gone” and describing the current moment as a new era in geopolitics that requires nations to rethink their roles and alliances.

Despite that agreement, leaders acknowledged widening differences between the United States and Europe on key issues, including tariffs, climate policy, and global governance. Merz defended Europe’s commitment to free trade, international cooperation, and climate agreements, while also emphasizing the importance of NATO and transatlantic unity.

Both leaders stressed that cooperation remains essential, especially as global power competition intensifies. Merz warned that even the United States cannot act alone in a world defined by major power rivalry, while Rubio expressed appreciation for Europe’s support for Ukraine and efforts to strengthen NATO.

Discussions at the conference also addressed trade, Iran, and diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, underscoring the wide range of challenges shaping the evolving global landscape.

Credit: CNN Newsource

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