Story perspectives

World Leaders Warn: Crumbling International Order's Costly Consequences

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

World leaders express concern that the international rules-based order is crumbling.
Senator Marco Rubio and Friedrich Merz question its relevance, stating it no longer exists.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticizes the concept, citing inconsistencies and selective law application.
Political scientist Stefan Wolff argues the climate signals a shift toward a less liberal order.
Wolff warns the framework's collapse may yield a costly, inferior replacement, with Russia facing consequences.

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Story summary

World leaders express concern that the international rules-based order is crumbling.
Senator Marco Rubio and Friedrich Merz question its relevance, stating it no longer exists.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticizes the concept, citing inconsistencies and selective law application.
Political scientist Stefan Wolff argues the climate signals a shift toward a less liberal order.
Wolff warns the framework's collapse may yield a costly, inferior replacement, with Russia facing consequences.