European nations also defend their commitments to NATO at Munich Security ConferenceThe Munich Security Conference is taking place amid heavy security. “Let me begin with the uncomfortable truth: A rift, a deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States,” Merz told the gathering, attended by dozens of leaders, defence chiefs and foreign ministers from around the world. ’Change, upheaval … sacrifice’But, switching from German to English, Merz struck a more hopeful note as he called on the US and Europe to forge a “new transatlantic partnership”. “In the era of great power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone,” said the conservative leader, traditionally a staunch supporter of the transatlantic alliance. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the Munich conference “stands like no other for what is in the DNA of our foreign and security policy, namely the transatlantic bond.

Source: Bangkok Post February 13, 2026 15:20 UTC