The world's rules-based order "no longer exists," according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who addressed the Munich Security Conference, a major international summit. Merz's warning, delivered against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, highlighted a perceived decline in global cooperation and the need for European nations to prepare for potential sacrifices. The conference also saw discussions on shifting political landscapes in various countries, including Bangladesh and Hungary, and the impact of policy changes in the United States.
Merz, speaking at the annual Munich Security Conference, stated that "our freedom is not guaranteed" in an era of big power politics. He also acknowledged a "deep divide" between Europe and the United States. The conference was taking place as US President Donald Trump considered actions that could impact international relations, including threatening Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland and imposing tariffs on European imports.
In Bangladesh, the political landscape is undergoing a shift. While Sheikh Hasina's 15-year grip on power seemed secure, the country is now poised for a change. Tarique Rahman, the new leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is expected to become the new prime minister, marking a potential shift in power after an election that was widely criticized. This change represents another cycle in the decades-long alternation of power between Hasina's Awami League and the BNP.
Meanwhile, in Hungary, opposition leader Peter Magyar accused his rivals of planning to blackmail him with a secretly recorded sex tape ahead of the upcoming election. Magyar, who leads long-time Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the polls, said he suspected there were plans to release a tape of him from August 2024. He stated he engaged in consensual sex with a now ex-girlfriend at a party. He is filing a complaint with authorities.
In the United States, President Trump's administration announced the reversal of the "endangerment finding," a key Obama-era ruling that underpins much of US environmental legislation. This decision by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to face legal challenges from environmental groups. Experts predict various environmental and economic impacts as a result of the change, including fewer restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions.
In the technology sector, Amazon's Ring has ended its deal with surveillance firm Flock Safety after facing scrutiny over its privacy practices. The agreement, announced in October, would have allowed agencies working with Flock to retrieve video captured on Ring devices for investigations. The decision to cancel the deal came after a Ring advertisement aired during the Super Bowl sparked widespread backlash.
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