Mark Leonard's World in 30 Minutes Live from MSC 2026: Transatlantic turning point
Feb 14, 2026
Janka Oertel, ECFR policy expert on European foreign policy and China. Ulrike Franke, defence and tech specialist on Europe’s military autonomy. Jeremy Cliffe, editorial director focused on international political dynamics. Majda Ruge, transatlantic and security policy analyst. They discuss Munich Security Conference highlights: US-Europe tensions, NATO’s future, China framing, tech regulation, Zelensky’s appearance and Europe’s defence and industrial shifts.
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Speeches Show Honest Transatlantic Divergence
- European leaders spoke more candidly on values and defence than in past MSC speeches, emphasizing military autonomy.
- Jeremy Cliffe highlights a newfound honesty where both sides state divergent transatlantic visions openly.
Visit To Ukrainian House Brings War Home
- Ulrike Franke visited the Ukrainian House and spoke to Ukrainians showing daily hardships like four hours of electricity.
- The encounter reminded her of the human realities behind the geopolitical discussions in Munich.
Treat Tech Regulation As A Core Negotiation Item
- Europeans should prioritise tech regulation in talks with the US and treat the Digital Services Act as a red line.
- Majda Ruge warns this issue needs more public attention to avoid frictions with a future US administration.
