German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged "a new transatlantic partnership" and French President Emmanuel Macron called for "a strong Europe" as more than 60 leaders gathered for the annual Munich Security Conference. European leaders at the gathering defended their security commitments and the NATO alliance, which Trump's rhetoric has rattled. It's also the United States' competitive advantage. "In the era of great-power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone." "A strong Europe in a strong NATO means that the transatlantic bond will be stronger than ever," Rutte said.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 14, 2026 14:34 UTC