The Intelligence from The Economist Munich insecurity conference: a re-ordering begins
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Feb 17, 2025 
Zanni Minton-Beddoes, Editor-in-chief at The Economist, and Shishank Joshi, Defense editor, delve into the pivotal discussions from the Munich Security Conference. They dissect Europe’s growing internal issues amidst rising far-right sentiments and the war in Ukraine. The conversation explores the evolving U.S.-European defense relationship, emphasizing the need for burden sharing and the strengthening of European military capabilities. Zelensky's urgent call for support and the complexities of American commitments are also central themes.
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Munich Conference Significance
- The Munich Security Conference, a key Western diplomacy forum since the 1960s, rarely makes headlines.
- This year's conference became a news gusher due to the Trump administration's controversial stances.
Vance's Critique of Europe
- Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Europeans on democracy, free speech, and migration.
- He challenged Germany's policy of isolating the far-right AFD party, causing shock and silence.
Shift in US Security Focus
- The Trump administration signaled reduced involvement in European security, focusing more on China.
- While no immediate troop withdrawals were planned, concerns arose about future European security negotiations.