German chancellor warns of superpower rise, threats to international order

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned at the World Economic Forum in Davos about the serious threat posed by the rise of “great powers” and the erosion of the old international order.

Merz noted that the calm and peace in Davos sharply contrast with global developments, where the old order is “unravelling at breathtaking pace,”  Caliber.Az reports via British media.

He highlighted Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine as a clear example, but stressed that the changes run much deeper. The chancellor added that China has strengthened its position among superpowers, while the global leadership role of the US now faces serious challenges.

“We have entered a time of great-power politics. The international order of the past three decades - anchored in international law - has always been imperfect. Today, its very foundations have been shaken,” Merz said.

He emphasised that a world dominated solely by power is extremely dangerous, especially for small and medium-sized states, and ultimately for the great powers as well. 

Reflecting on Germany’s tragic experience under Nazism, the chancellor sternly warned forum delegates: “I do not say this lightly. In the twentieth century, my country, Germany, went down this 6 road to its bitter end. It pulled the world into a black abyss.”

Merz also expressed concern about Greenland’s security, stressing the importance of respecting territorial integrity.

He welcomed the US attention to potential threats from Russia in the Arctic and underscored the belief that NATO must do more to ensure security in the North. At the same time, Merz reassured that “Denmark and the people of Greenland can count on Germany’s support.”

The chancellor highlighted Germany’s active support for dialogue between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States and expressed satisfaction with US President Donald Trump’s recent statement that America will not use force to acquire Greenland. “It is good news that we are making steps into the right direction,” Merz concluded.

By Jeyhun Aghazada