German Chancellor Merz Declares Europe-US Rift at Munich Conference

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared on Friday that a profound divide has emerged between Europe and the United States, urging both sides to rebuild trust amid escalating global tensions. Speaking at the opening of the Munich Security Conference, a gathering of world leaders, defense officials, and foreign ministers, Merz highlighted the need for a renewed transatlantic partnership to navigate an era of great power competition.

"Let me begin with the uncomfortable truth: A rift, a deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States," Merz told the audience, switching midway from German to English to address American attendees directly. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was among the senior officials present as the three-day event began, set against a backdrop of strained relations under President Donald Trump's administration.

Merz pointed to recent U.S. actions as key factors in the rift, including Trump's comments on acquiring Greenland and new tariff policies that have unsettled European economies. He also referenced a speech by U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the previous year's conference, where Vance criticized Europe for suppressing free speech and...