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Chancellor Merz: Erosion of Global Order Threatens Security

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned at the Munich Security Conference that the rules-based international order is eroding due to geopolitical rivalry and military confrontations.
He argued the post-1945 system falters because Europe selectively adheres to rules, contributing to the system's decline.
Critics say the 1999 Kosovo NATO action and the 2003 Iraq invasion were exceptional but undercut the legal framework.

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Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned at the Munich Security Conference that the rules-based international order is eroding due to geopolitical rivalry and military confrontations.
He argued the post-1945 system falters because Europe selectively adheres to rules, contributing to the system's decline.
Critics say the 1999 Kosovo NATO action and the 2003 Iraq invasion were exceptional but undercut the legal framework.