The world's rules-based order "no longer exists," according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who addressed the Munich Security Conference, warning of a new era of big power politics. The conference, which took place against the backdrop of rising global tensions, saw Merz emphasize the need for European nations to prepare for potential sacrifices.
Merz's comments highlighted a growing concern among world leaders regarding the current state of international relations. He stated that "our freedom is not guaranteed," signaling a shift away from the established norms of global cooperation. The conference also addressed the widening divide between Europe and the United States, a point of contention exacerbated by actions such as former US President Donald Trump's threats regarding Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland and his imposition of tariffs on European imports.
Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, a political shift is underway. Tarique Rahman is expected to become the new prime minister, marking a significant change in the country's political landscape. This comes after Sheikh Hasina's 15-year hold on power, which was previously considered unbreakable, was challenged. This change represents a recurring pattern in Bangladeshi politics, where the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have alternated in power for decades.
In other news, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a reversal of the "endangerment finding," a key Obama-era ruling that underpins much of US environmental legislation. This decision, which experts predict will lead to fewer restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions, is expected to face legal challenges from environmental groups. The change is expected to impact the US auto industry by loosening greenhouse gas regulations.
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 is ahead in the polls, said he suspected there were plans to release a tape from August 2024. He stated that he engaged in consensual sex with an ex-girlfriend at a party.
Finally, Amazon's Ring has ended its deal with surveillance firm Flock Safety following public backlash. The partnership, which was 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 criticism over privacy concerns.
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