Davos: Germany's Merz says old world order 'unraveling'

""We have entered an era of great power politics," Merz said. "The new world of the great powers is founded upon power, strength and when necessary, force. It is not a cozy place." The German chancellor said Russia's assault on Ukraine signifies the beginning of a "new era, but change runs much deeper." "China, with strategic foresight, has worked its way into the ranks of the great powers," Merz said."

""Europe [and its] like-minded partners must stand closer together," the German chancellor said. He said European countries must do more to make their economies competitive and to "invest massively in our ability to defend ourselves." Merz said a "world where only power counts is a dangerous place." He recalled the Nazi regime in Germany from 1933 to 1945, which "pulled the world into a black abyss.""

The old world order is unraveling as the United States' pole position faces challenges from Russia and China. An era of great power politics centers on power, strength and force rather than cooperative norms. Russia's assault on Ukraine signals a deeper geopolitical shift, while China has advanced into great-power status through strategic foresight. Washington is radically reshaping its foreign and security policy in response. Europe must stand closer with like-minded partners, boost economic competitiveness, and invest massively in defense. A world where only power counts is dangerous; NATO ties and transatlantic cooperation remain essential despite recent tensions over tariffs and Greenland.

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