Munich, Germany, Feb 14, (V7N): European leaders have called for a major reset in relations with the United States as global security tensions dominated discussions at the annual Munich Security Conference.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged the creation of a “new transatlantic partnership,” while French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for a stronger and more independent Europe.

More than 60 world leaders gathered at the high-level conference amid strained ties between Europe and the United States, following recent remarks by US President Donald Trump that criticised European nations and sparked diplomatic concern.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to say that Europe must act as a “sleeping giant” and reduce reliance on the US for defence, while still maintaining alliance cooperation. Leaders reaffirmed the importance of the NATO alliance, calling it a key pillar of shared security.

The ongoing war in Ukraine, now nearing its fifth year, remained a central focus of talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held meetings with European and NATO leaders on continued military support and future security frameworks against what leaders described as an “aggressive Russia.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held several sideline meetings, including discussions on Ukraine, NATO cooperation, and global security issues. He also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, where both sides agreed that dialogue and cooperation are preferable to confrontation amid rising global tensions.

European leaders emphasised that while partnership with the United States remains vital, Europe must strengthen its own defence industry and strategic autonomy. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Europe is stepping up its leadership role and taking greater responsibility for its own defence.

**Overall, the conference highlighted a shifting geopolitical landscape, with Europe seeking stronger unity, greater defence independence, and renewed transatlantic trust in an era of global power rivalry.**