Munich Security Conference opens amid warnings of 'wrecking-ball politics'

2026-02-13 - 08:05

The 62nd Munich Security Conference opened Friday with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivering opening remarks to over 1,000 participants representing more than 115 nations, including approximately 60 heads of state and government. Organizers characterize this year's gathering as occurring at a moment of "exceptional urgency," with overlapping security crises, intensifying geopolitical competition, and fundamental structural transformations challenging established international frameworks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is among the high-profile attendees. Record US Delegation Amid Transatlantic Strains Secretary of State Marco Rubio leads Washington's "largest delegation ever," comprising more than one-quarter of the US Senate. European participation exceeds two-thirds of the continent's leadership, alongside 50 international organization chiefs including the heads of NATO, the EU, ASEAN, OSCE, World Bank, WTO, and multiple UN agencies. The extensive American presence signals continued engagement even as the conference's annual report delivers scathing assessment of US policy direction. MSC Report Condemns 'Bulldozer' Approach The pre-released Munich Security Report warns that "the world has entered a period of wrecking-ball politics" and that the "US-led postwar international order is now under destruction." Authors explicitly target President Trump's approach, arguing Washington's "disruptive agenda"—including disregard for international law and systematic dismantlement of rules and institutions—will profoundly impact conflicts worldwide. The report cautions this trajectory risks creating a global system dominated by "the rich and powerful and regional hegemons" rather than universal norms. Discussion agendas span Ukraine support, Gaza reconstruction, Iran tensions, climate security, nuclear risks, artificial intelligence, and the weaponization of trade and technology.