The Munich Security Conference has become a forum for discussing a changing world, where Europe is no longer relying on the United States as its primary partner. This shift reflects decades of “strategic autonomy” becoming an urgent operational doctrine. European leaders are building parallel systems that can function independently of US control, including alternative payment networks, domestic semiconductor production, and sovereign cloud infrastructure.
The conference highlighted a growing divide between Democrats in the US who want to recommit to global humanitarian projects and those in Europe who believe it’s time for self-reliance. Despite reassurances from some Democrats, such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, that the transatlantic partnership can be mended, many Europeans seem convinced that it’s too late.
The US-led order is wobblier than ever, with institutions weakening gradually as they adjust to new realities. The question of whether the conference will be the last one has become a recognition that something intangible has already ended – the assumption of a shared future among allies.
The EU’s focus on strengthening its military and building alternative systems reflects a changing world where the US is no longer seen as a reliable partner. Climate change, China’s economic and military ambitions, and global power dynamics are just a few of the issues that will continue to shape international relations in the years to come.
Source: https://www.thenation.com/article/world/munich-security-conference-2026-aoc-newsom-whitmer