At Munich Summit, European Leaders Agree With Trump: The Old World Order Is Over

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by Steven Erlanger

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

At the Munich Security Conference, European leaders and U.S. officials have shifted from confrontation to de-escalation, signaling a significant shift in the trans-Atlantic relationship. While American tones have softened, their core message remains clear: Europe must take greater responsibility for its defense, moving away from decades of reliance on U.S. leadership. This sentiment was echoed by leaders like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, who emphasized the need for European military autonomy to strengthen alliances with the United States. The conference reflects a broader recognition that the post-World War II international order is being challenged. Leaders acknowledge that the U.S. can no longer be the sole underwriter of Western security, as seen through Europe's push for initiatives like joint nuclear deterrence and increased defense spending commitments. These efforts are partly driven by a growing realization among European leaders that their dependence on American protection has been undermined by recent U.S. actions, such as former President Trump's attempt to negotiate the purchase of Greenland. The shift in tone at Munich also highlights the mutual desire to avoid further confrontation while maintaining cooperation. Both sides have moved away from open hostility, with U.S. officials praising European efforts to boost military spending and discuss a more equal partnership in conventional defense. However, there is little indication that U.S. policy has fundamentally changed; rather, the focus has shifted to a pragmatic approach aimed at preserving mutual interests. This redefinition of trans-Atlantic relations matters because it signals a potential sea change in global security dynamics. Europe's push for greater autonomy reflects not only a response to U.S. actions but also a recognition of its own vulnerabilities and the need to assert itself on the world stage. The outcome of these discussions will shape the future of Western alliances and determine how both continents navigate an increasingly uncertain international landscape.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/13/2026