Europe urges US reset at Munich security conference

WEB DESK: European leaders have called for a reset in relations with the United States during the annual Munich Security Conference, as heads of state and government convened to address growing geopolitical tensions.

According to AFP, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasised the need to “repair and revive trans‑Atlantic trust together”, underlining the importance of cooperation amid an increasingly complex international security environment. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the call, stressing the necessity of a strong and autonomous Europe, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the importance of Europe taking greater responsibility for its own defence capabilities.

The conference comes amid strained US‑Europe relations, following policy divergences and diplomatic tensions in recent years. While NATO remains central to collective defence, European leaders argue that the continent must enhance its strategic autonomy to respond to global security challenges effectively.

US representatives, including senior State Department officials, attended the forum, signalling Washington’s willingness to engage in discussions on issues ranging from the war in Ukraine to broader international security concerns.

European officials also emphasised shared responsibility in defence spending and the need for closer collaboration within NATO, calling for a recalibrated partnership with the United States that reflects changing geopolitical realities.