Berlin (Web Desk): At the Munich Security Conference, European leaders called for a new chapter in relations with the United States, as tensions linger following President Donald Trump’s critical remarks on traditional transatlantic ties. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pushed for a “new transatlantic partnership,” while French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the importance of building “a strong Europe” moving forward.
With more than 60 leaders gathered, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to highlight Europe’s need for less reliance on the US. for defense, calling Europe “a sleeping giant” that must step up. The discussions come at a time of strained relations, sparked by Trump’s past threats to annex Greenland and his negative assessments of Europe’s strength.
Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine dominated the conference agenda, as NATO members, under pressure from Trump’s defense spending demands, discussed bolstering their military capabilities in response to the growing threat from Moscow. US. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are also scheduled to address the gathering, further emphasizing the global security landscape.
European leaders defended NATO’s role and reiterated their commitment to mutual defense, with Merz calling NATO not just Europe’s advantage, but the U.S.’s as well. Macron also proposed a new approach to handling an “aggressive Russia” after the Ukraine war, underscoring Europe’s readiness for serious talks when the time comes.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy, who visited a German drone factory ahead of the conference, stated that Europe needs a “strong independent defense industry” to complement its relationship with the U.S. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte added that Europe is taking more responsibility in NATO, ensuring that a stronger Europe will reinforce the transatlantic bond.