Representatives from across the world are in Germany at the Munich Security Conference. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is representing Pakistan at the meet in an exclusive conversation with WION. The minister talked about the conference, the war in Ukraine and Pakistan's participation in the upcoming SEO meet in India.

Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto speaks to WION, says 'We are engaging with everyone at Munich summit'

US Vice President Kamala Harris speaking at the Munich Security Conference. Watch the video to know more on what the Vice President said.

Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris flags 'crimes against humanity' & 'civilian sufferings'

United States Vice President Kamala Harris, who joined world leaders at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, said on Saturday that even in the face of continued aggression by Russia, Ukraine is still standing a year later. The speech comes days ahead of the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which took place on February 24 last year.&nbsp;

In an emotional yet strong speech, VP Harris said that after the war started many wondered how NATO will respond. "Putin thought he could divide NATO...NATO alliance is stronger than ever...and Article 5 is ironclad," she said during her address. Harris asserted that US has no doubt that this "unity will endure." She said that United States will support Ukraine for "as long as it takes."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-chelsea-forward-christian-atsu-found-dead-in-turkey-quake-rubble-confirms-agent-563381">Former Chelsea forward Christian Atsu found dead in Turkey quake rubble, confirms agent</a>

In her address, Harris expressed a sense of a stronger-than-ever transatlantic alliance and also praised the "spirit of the Ukrainian people." She also appreciated US President Joe Biden for his "decisive leadership" saying that Washington will not waver in its support for Kyiv.&nbsp;

Vice President Harris rebuked Russian President Vladimir Putin for "assault on our common values...an attack on our common humanity."&nbsp;"In the case of Russia's actions in Ukraine...we have examined and these are crimes against humanity."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/do-this-by-19-march-or-lose-twitter-access-major-security-feature-removed-for-non-blue-subscribers-563406">DO THIS by 19 March or lose Twitter access, major security feature removed for non-Blue subscribers</a> 
&nbsp; 
At the Munich Security Conference, Harris called for a renewed commitment to accountability and rule of law. "Justice must be served for victims both known and unknown." She noted that the fight in Ukraine has "far-reaching global ramifications" and that "no nation is safe when one country can violate the territorial integrity of another... and where a country with imperialist ambitions can go unchecked."

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protesters-throw-bricks-and-bottles-at-security-personnel-violent-protest-grips-suriname-capital-563366">Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital</a>

"We have remained strong and we must stay strong because if Putin were to succeed in his attack, other nations could feel emboldened," she said.&nbsp;US Vice President chided North Korea and Iran for supplying defence equipment to Russia and also condemned Beijing for deepening its relations with Russia.&nbsp;

"The American people are in awe of the resolve of Ukrainians...their&nbsp;willingness to fight for freedom and liberty... leadership of Zelensky." Speaking about the unity inside US congress, she said Democrats and Republicans are together as they understand the stakes of the war.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

United States Vice President Kamala Harris, who joined world leaders at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, said on Saturday that even in the face of continued aggression by Russia, Ukraine is still standing a year later.

United States Vice President Kamala Harris, who joined world leaders at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, said on Saturday that even in the face of continued aggression by Russia, Ukraine is still standing a year later. The speech comes days ahead of the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which took place on February 24 last year. In an emotional yet strong speech, VP Harris said that after the war started many wondered how NATO will respond. "Putin thought he could divide NATO...NATO alliance is stronger than ever...and Article 5 is ironclad," she said during her address. Harris asserted that US has no doubt that this "unity will endure." She said that United States will support Ukraine for "as long as it takes." Also Read | Former Chelsea forward Christian Atsu found dead in Turkey quake rubble, confirms agent In her address, Harris expressed a sense of a stronger-than-ever transatlantic alliance and also praised the "spirit of the Ukrainian people." She also appreciated US President Joe Biden for his "decisive leadership" saying that Washington will not waver in its support for Kyiv. Vice President Harris rebuked Russian President Vladimir Putin for "assault on our common values...an attack on our common humanity." "In the case of Russia's actions in Ukraine...we have examined and these are crimes against humanity." Also Read | DO THIS by 19 March or lose Twitter access, major security feature removed for non-Blue subscribers At the Munich Security Conference, Harris called for a renewed commitment to accountability and rule of law. "Justice must be served for victims both known and unknown." She noted that the fight in Ukraine has "far-reaching global ramifications" and that "no nation is safe when one country can violate the territorial integrity of another... and where a country with imperialist ambitions can go unchecked." Watch | Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital "We have remained strong and we must stay strong because if Putin were to succeed in his attack, other nations could feel emboldened," she said. US Vice President chided North Korea and Iran for supplying defence equipment to Russia and also condemned Beijing for deepening its relations with Russia. "The American people are in awe of the resolve of Ukrainians...their willingness to fight for freedom and liberty... leadership of Zelensky." Speaking about the unity inside US congress, she said Democrats and Republicans are together as they understand the stakes of the war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris vows support to Ukraine for 'as long as it takes'

The Munich Security Conference is presently underway in Germany and amidst a series of conversations, discussions and all debates that have been hosted on the platform. The forum itself is at the centre of debate questions are being raised about its significance.

Austrian FM Alexander Schallenberg speaks to WION, says 'Munich Summit not an eco chamber of West'

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said at the Munich Security Conference that the United Kingdom is training Ukrainian soldiers to defend their country and will also help any nation to provide planes to Ukraine. However, he did not make any commitment to send fighter jets to Ukraine any time soon. He said that the UK will become the first nation to send long-range weapons to a war-torn country.&nbsp;

“When Putin started this war, he gambled that our resolve would falter. Even now, he is betting we will lose our nerve,” Sunak said in&nbsp;his address.&nbsp;He said that the UK will always be on the side of "freedom, democracy and the rule of law. The UK prime minister exuded confidence in his willingness to work towards the collective security of Europe, despite no longer being a part of the European Union.&nbsp;

"Security of the European continent will always be our priority," Sunak asserted.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-chelsea-forward-christian-atsu-found-dead-in-turkey-quake-rubble-confirms-agent-563381">Former Chelsea forward Christian Atsu found dead in Turkey quake rubble, confirms agent</a>

Speaking at the Munich summit, UK PM apprised the gathering that his country was the first to provide tanks to Ukraine and the first to train Ukrainian pilots and marines. However, he stated that there is a need for a "military strategy and a political strategy."

"Ukraine needs and deserves the assurance,"&nbsp;Sunak said adding that the UK will be the first nation to aid Ukraine by supplying longer-range weapons. "UK&nbsp;is ready to help any country to provide Ukraine planes they need today but we must also train Ukrainian pilots to use advanced jets."

He held Russia accountable for war crimes in Bucha, Irpin and Mariupol.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/do-this-by-19-march-or-lose-twitter-access-major-security-feature-removed-for-non-blue-subscribers-563406">DO THIS by 19 March or lose Twitter access, major security feature removed for non-Blue subscribers</a>

UK PM also said that ahead of the NATO summit in Vilnius, Ukraine needs to get long-term assurance and a new NATO charter must be forged to help protect Ukraine from future Russian aggression.&nbsp;

“Now is the moment to double down on our military support for Ukraine," he asserted. This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on a trip to London last week requested UK to provide Ukraine with more defence weapons, especially fighter jets.&nbsp;

On Saturday, at the Munich Security Conference, the leaders of various allies of Ukraine, including US Vice President Kamala Harris pledged support to Ukraine. Sunak defended Ukraine saying that Kyiv "is suffering unprovoked aggression" and "its people have been killed."&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protesters-throw-bricks-and-bottles-at-security-personnel-violent-protest-grips-suriname-capital-563366">Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital</a>

Referring to&nbsp;China, Sunak said that Beijing needs to play a responsible role when it comes to a situation like Ukraine war.&nbsp;The key focus at the Munich Security Conference is the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the support the Western allies are giving to Ukraine. The key speakers on Saturday included the American Vice President Kamala Harris&nbsp;and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak amongst others.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said at the Munich Security Conference that the United Kingdom is training Ukrainian soldiers to defend their country and will also help any nation to provide planes to Ukraine.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said at the Munich Security Conference that the United Kingdom is training Ukrainian soldiers to defend their country and will also help any nation to provide planes to Ukraine. However, he did not make any commitment to send fighter jets to Ukraine any time soon. He said that the UK will become the first nation to send long-range weapons to a war-torn country. “When Putin started this war, he gambled that our resolve would falter. Even now, he is betting we will lose our nerve,” Sunak said in his address. He said that the UK will always be on the side of "freedom, democracy and the rule of law. The UK prime minister exuded confidence in his willingness to work towards the collective security of Europe, despite no longer being a part of the European Union. "Security of the European continent will always be our priority," Sunak asserted. Also Read | Former Chelsea forward Christian Atsu found dead in Turkey quake rubble, confirms agent Speaking at the Munich summit, UK PM apprised the gathering that his country was the first to provide tanks to Ukraine and the first to train Ukrainian pilots and marines. However, he stated that there is a need for a "military strategy and a political strategy." "Ukraine needs and deserves the assurance," Sunak said adding that the UK will be the first nation to aid Ukraine by supplying longer-range weapons. "UK is ready to help any country to provide Ukraine planes they need today but we must also train Ukrainian pilots to use advanced jets." He held Russia accountable for war crimes in Bucha, Irpin and Mariupol. Also Read | DO THIS by 19 March or lose Twitter access, major security feature removed for non-Blue subscribers UK PM also said that ahead of the NATO summit in Vilnius, Ukraine needs to get long-term assurance and a new NATO charter must be forged to help protect Ukraine from future Russian aggression. “Now is the moment to double down on our military support for Ukraine," he asserted. This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on a trip to London last week requested UK to provide Ukraine with more defence weapons, especially fighter jets. On Saturday, at the Munich Security Conference, the leaders of various allies of Ukraine, including US Vice President Kamala Harris pledged support to Ukraine. Sunak defended Ukraine saying that Kyiv "is suffering unprovoked aggression" and "its people have been killed." Watch | Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital Referring to China, Sunak said that Beijing needs to play a responsible role when it comes to a situation like Ukraine war. The key focus at the Munich Security Conference is the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the support the Western allies are giving to Ukraine. The key speakers on Saturday included the American Vice President Kamala Harris and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak amongst others. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Munich Conference: Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter

China's top diplomat Wang Yi has said the country continues to call for peace and dialogue on the Russia-Ukraine war. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, China's top diplomat said the country backs a political solution to the war in Ukraine.

China's top diplomat calls for dialogue over Ukraine crisis

World leaders and top politicians are attending the three-day Munich Security Conference. The Ukraine War is nearing its first anniversary and tensions between China and the United States is rising over espionage claims.

Munich Security Conference: NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg says 'must step up support for Ukraine'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (February 17) urged the West to maintain speedy weapons' deliveries as Russia's offensive will enter the second year soon. Addressing the Munich Security Conference via a video link, Zelensky said that his country could ensure the collapse of Moscow's aggression this year as long as it received the weapons it needed.&nbsp;"We need speed -- the speed of our agreements, speed of our delivery... speed of decisions to limit Russian potential," Zelensky said, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

"Ukraine’s key message at the Munich Security Conference is an obvious one – we have to do everything so we bring about the collapse of Russian aggression before year-end. This is possible, this is necessary but this is possible if Ukraine receives the weaponry needed for this. That is why our diplomatic marathon is ongoing without let up," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-french-president-macron-bashes-putin-in-a-hard-hitting-address-563193">Munich Security Conference: French President Macron bashes Putin in a hard-hitting address</a>

"Following my visit to Washington in December a 'tank coalition' for Ukraine has been created, the taboo on the supply of long-range missiles is being lifted, there are new achievements in strengthening our artillery and the world has already heard how important it is for worldwide security to create an 'aviation coalition' for Ukraine," Zelensky further said, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian president also said that he would continue to consolidate support for initiatives promulgated by Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "Next week, we will present an important resolution and today I presented its main ideas to the leaders of The Commonwealth Caribbean among others. Ukraine’s foreign policy is always based on respect for all who are party to international relations," he added.&nbsp;

Zelensky thanked those who were supporting Ukraine's efforts to stabilise international relations and reiterated his ambitions for Ukraine to join the European Union (EU).&nbsp;

The Ukraine war has been one of the dominating issues at the Munich Security Conference which will go on till Sunday.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron, who was a part of the conference, joined in the call for allies to intensify the support for Ukraine to aid its forces in launching a counter-offensive. "It is not the time for dialogue because we have a Russia which has chosen war, which has chosen to intensify the war, and which has chosen to go as far as committing war crimes and to attacking civilian infrastructure," Macron said, AFP reported.&nbsp;

German chancellor Olaf Scholz, meanwhile, insisted that Berlin's support was "designed to last", and urged allies to speed up deliveries of heavy tanks promised to Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (February 17) urged the West to maintain speedy weapons' deliveries as Russia's offensive will enter the second year soon.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (February 17) urged the West to maintain speedy weapons' deliveries as Russia's offensive will enter the second year soon. Addressing the Munich Security Conference via a video link, Zelensky said that his country could ensure the collapse of Moscow's aggression this year as long as it received the weapons it needed. "We need speed -- the speed of our agreements, speed of our delivery... speed of decisions to limit Russian potential," Zelensky said, the news agency AFP reported. "Ukraine’s key message at the Munich Security Conference is an obvious one – we have to do everything so we bring about the collapse of Russian aggression before year-end. This is possible, this is necessary but this is possible if Ukraine receives the weaponry needed for this. That is why our diplomatic marathon is ongoing without let up," he added. ALSO READ | Munich Security Conference: French President Macron bashes Putin in a hard-hitting address "Following my visit to Washington in December a 'tank coalition' for Ukraine has been created, the taboo on the supply of long-range missiles is being lifted, there are new achievements in strengthening our artillery and the world has already heard how important it is for worldwide security to create an 'aviation coalition' for Ukraine," Zelensky further said, the news agency Reuters reported. The Ukrainian president also said that he would continue to consolidate support for initiatives promulgated by Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "Next week, we will present an important resolution and today I presented its main ideas to the leaders of The Commonwealth Caribbean among others. Ukraine’s foreign policy is always based on respect for all who are party to international relations," he added. Zelensky thanked those who were supporting Ukraine's efforts to stabilise international relations and reiterated his ambitions for Ukraine to join the European Union (EU). The Ukraine war has been one of the dominating issues at the Munich Security Conference which will go on till Sunday. French President Emmanuel Macron, who was a part of the conference, joined in the call for allies to intensify the support for Ukraine to aid its forces in launching a counter-offensive. "It is not the time for dialogue because we have a Russia which has chosen war, which has chosen to intensify the war, and which has chosen to go as far as committing war crimes and to attacking civilian infrastructure," Macron said, AFP reported. German chancellor Olaf Scholz, meanwhile, insisted that Berlin's support was "designed to last", and urged allies to speed up deliveries of heavy tanks promised to Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: At Munich Security Conference, Zelensky urges West to maintain speedy weapons’ deliveries

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar's viral Europe's "mindset" remark echoed during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-munich-security-conference-world-leaders-gather-as-russia-ukraine-war-set-to-enter-second-year-563072">Munich Security Conference</a>, which opened on Friday (February 17).&nbsp;During the 17th edition of the GLOBSEC Bratislava Forum last year in June, Jaishankar had schooled a journalist with a savage reply and had said, “Europe has to grow out of the mindset&nbsp;that Europe’s problems are the world’s problems, but the world’s problems are&nbsp;not Europe’s problems.”&nbsp;

The context was used by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday as he suggested a change in the so-called "mindset". Scholz said that, "Europe must get out of the mindset that Europe's problems are the world's problems but the world's problems are not Europe’s problems."&nbsp;

Scholz's acknowledgement of India's point of view as mentioned by the Indian foreign minister is of huge significance. It comes as the German Chancellor is all set to visit India from February 25 to February 26.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Watch: "He has a point", German Chancellor Olaf Scholz quotes EAM Jaishankar's <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> words 'Europe has to get out of the mindset that Europe’s problems are the world’s problems' at Munich Security Council <a href="https://t.co/ExLkyAAKqq">https://t.co/ExLkyAAKqq</a> <a href="https://t.co/gAiblDXUyi">pic.twitter.com/gAiblDXUyi</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1626594721228546053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Watch this reel:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-quotes-indias-jaishankar-at-munich-conference-563223/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-french-president-macron-bashes-putin-in-a-hard-hitting-address-563193">Munich Security Conference: French President Macron bashes Putin in a hard-hitting address</a>&nbsp;

While mentioning the emerging power blocs across the world, Scholz said that he is "convinced that when we look at our world in 2050, we will see many powerful nations in Asia, in Africa and in the South of America".&nbsp;

Scholz added, "It will definitely be a multi-polar world, characterised by the rule of law and not by revisionism."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/political-analyst-and-eastern-europe-expert-sergej-sumlenny-speaks-to-wion-on-the-munich-summit-563203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Scholz on Ukraine war&nbsp;</h2>

At the conference, Scholz also vowed sustained backing for Ukraine as Kyiv battles to repel Russian troops. He said, "From the beginning, our support is designed to last." He added that allies with battle tanks available to send to Ukraine should "do so now".&nbsp;

In the opening address of the Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky said that there's "no alternative to Ukrainian victory" and he also compared Russia to "Goliath"&nbsp;who came to destroy their lives.&nbsp;

Zelensky&nbsp;urged allies to "hurry up" with their support for Kyiv, saying lives were in the balance.&nbsp;

He said:&nbsp;"Next year, let's gather here in Munich for the post-war conference, for a free Europe and a free world."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar's viral Europe's "mindset" remark echoed during the Munich Security Conference, which opened on Friday (February 17).

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar's viral Europe's "mindset" remark echoed during the Munich Security Conference, which opened on Friday (February 17). During the 17th edition of the GLOBSEC Bratislava Forum last year in June, Jaishankar had schooled a journalist with a savage reply and had said, “Europe has to grow out of the mindset that Europe’s problems are the world’s problems, but the world’s problems are not Europe’s problems.” The context was used by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday as he suggested a change in the so-called "mindset". Scholz said that, "Europe must get out of the mindset that Europe's problems are the world's problems but the world's problems are not Europe’s problems." Scholz's acknowledgement of India's point of view as mentioned by the Indian foreign minister is of huge significance. It comes as the German Chancellor is all set to visit India from February 25 to February 26. Watch: "He has a point", German Chancellor Olaf Scholz quotes EAM Jaishankar's @DrSJaishankar words 'Europe has to get out of the mindset that Europe’s problems are the world’s problems' at Munich Security Council https://t.co/ExLkyAAKqq pic.twitter.com/gAiblDXUyi — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 17, 2023 × Watch this reel: × ALSO READ | Munich Security Conference: French President Macron bashes Putin in a hard-hitting address While mentioning the emerging power blocs across the world, Scholz said that he is "convinced that when we look at our world in 2050, we will see many powerful nations in Asia, in Africa and in the South of America". Scholz added, "It will definitely be a multi-polar world, characterised by the rule of law and not by revisionism." × Scholz on Ukraine war At the conference, Scholz also vowed sustained backing for Ukraine as Kyiv battles to repel Russian troops. He said, "From the beginning, our support is designed to last." He added that allies with battle tanks available to send to Ukraine should "do so now". In the opening address of the Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that there's "no alternative to Ukrainian victory" and he also compared Russia to "Goliath" who came to destroy their lives. Zelensky urged allies to "hurry up" with their support for Kyiv, saying lives were in the balance. He said: "Next year, let's gather here in Munich for the post-war conference, for a free Europe and a free world." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Jaishankar's 'Europe mindset' remark echoes at Munich Security Conference in Scholz's statement

Politicians, military officers and diplomats from around the world gathered in Munich on 17th Feb to discuss Europe's security situation following the Russian invasion of Ukraine almost a year ago.

Russia-Ukraine War dominates Munich Security Conference

French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky few days ahead in Paris, rebuked Russia at the Munich Security Conference, for its ongoing onslaught on Ukraine. In a strong statement, Macron said "it is not the time for dialogue because Russia has chosen war."&nbsp;

While pledging his staunch support for Ukraine in its fight, Macron said that Ukrainian allies "absolutely need" to intensify the support for the Ukrainian people and its army to help them to launch a counter-offensive.

He added that counter-offensive will be the only way to "allow credible negotiations."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-japan-aborts-launch-of-flagship-h3-rocket-moments-before-lift-off-563173">Japan aborts launch of flagship H3 rocket moments before lift off</a>

Macron at his address at the conference said, "No one in this room has an answer to this: There is not complete and long-term peace in our continent as long as the Russian matter goes unresolved."

He went on to say that the western allies stands in solidarity with Ukraine and is "ready for a prolonged conflict." The French president said that Russia is "further intensify this war, and has chosen to go as far as committing war crimes and attacking civilian infrastructures."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-ukraine-is-set-to-mark-one-year-war-anniversary-dutch-pm-visits-kyiv-563143">As Ukraine is set to mark one-year war anniversary, Dutch PM meets Zelensky in Kyiv</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in his address said that the western allies should send tanks to Ukraine now. "We need to hurry up. We need speed – speed of our agreements, speed of our delivery, speed of decisions to limit Russian potential. There is no alternative to speed because it is the speed that life depends on," he said.

Zelensky, who opened the Munich Security Conference on Friday urged allies to "hurry up" and support Kyiv.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tom-blundell-leads-new-zealand-fightback-in-england-first-test-563185">Tom Blundell leads New Zealand fightback in England first Test</a>

World leaders have gathered in Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, scheduled from 17 February to 19 February. The annual conference which deals with the contemporary global security policy challenges is being held days ahead of one-year anniversary of Russia's war on Ukraine, which started last year on 24 February.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky few days ahead in Paris, rebuked Russia at the Munich Security Conference, for its ongoing onslaught on Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky few days ahead in Paris, rebuked Russia at the Munich Security Conference, for its ongoing onslaught on Ukraine. In a strong statement, Macron said "it is not the time for dialogue because Russia has chosen war." While pledging his staunch support for Ukraine in its fight, Macron said that Ukrainian allies "absolutely need" to intensify the support for the Ukrainian people and its army to help them to launch a counter-offensive. He added that counter-offensive will be the only way to "allow credible negotiations." Also Read | Japan aborts launch of flagship H3 rocket moments before lift off Macron at his address at the conference said, "No one in this room has an answer to this: There is not complete and long-term peace in our continent as long as the Russian matter goes unresolved." He went on to say that the western allies stands in solidarity with Ukraine and is "ready for a prolonged conflict." The French president said that Russia is "further intensify this war, and has chosen to go as far as committing war crimes and attacking civilian infrastructures." Also Read | As Ukraine is set to mark one-year war anniversary, Dutch PM meets Zelensky in Kyiv Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in his address said that the western allies should send tanks to Ukraine now. "We need to hurry up. We need speed – speed of our agreements, speed of our delivery, speed of decisions to limit Russian potential. There is no alternative to speed because it is the speed that life depends on," he said. Zelensky, who opened the Munich Security Conference on Friday urged allies to "hurry up" and support Kyiv. Watch | Tom Blundell leads New Zealand fightback in England first Test World leaders have gathered in Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, scheduled from 17 February to 19 February. The annual conference which deals with the contemporary global security policy challenges is being held days ahead of one-year anniversary of Russia's war on Ukraine, which started last year on 24 February. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Munich Security Conference: French President Macron bashes Putin in a hard-hitting address

The top level diplomats and military officers from around the world have gathered for the Security Conference in the German city of Munich. The security conference is annual gathering that is focused on defence and diplomacy.

World leaders gather in Germany for Munich Security Conference

Munich Security Conference (MSC), which is an annual conference on contemporary global security policy challenges, will take place from 17 February to 19 February this year. World leaders will put their heads together at Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich debating issues, the most important being Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;Though Russia had been building its troops along the Ukrainian border, the full-blown invasion only took place after a few days of MSC 2022. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on February 27 last year addressed the country's parliament, Bundestag, where he termed Russia's invasion of Ukraine a watershed moment or zeitenwende (a german word which means: times-turn). &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-nicola-sturgeons-surprise-step-down-search-begins-to-find-successor-562542">After Nicola Sturgeon's surprise step down, search begins to find successor</a>

The Munich Conference 2023 will see the participation of a slew of high-ranking international experts along with over 45 heads of government. Most important global organizations including the UN, NATO and the EU will be represented by their heads.&nbsp;The conference will take place under the chairmanship of Ambassador Dr. Christoph Heusgen.&nbsp;

<h2>What will take centre stage in Munich Security Conference (MSC) discussions?</h2>

Russia's invasion of Ukraine

One of the most prominent questions that will be raised at the conference will be "What does the world look like a year after the beginning of the invasion?" and a closer look at whether the current situation entails a "global recommitment to a rules-based international order."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-protests-erupt-in-nigeria-over-scarcity-of-cash-reports-562541">Violent protests erupt in Nigeria over scarcity of cash: Reports</a>

Voices from Global South

Another main topic on the agenda is to look beyond the transatlantic core and put more emphasis on diverse perspectives from the Global South. The conference will "champion diversity and sustainability" in the form of either "gender parity amongst speakers" or "the inclusion of voices from the Global South."

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-to-share-charging-network-3500-chargers-for-non-tesla-customers-562566">Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers</a>

This year, just like the last six decades, the event will be governed by the Munich Rule, which is to "Engage and interact with each other: Don't lecture or ignore one another."&nbsp;Earlier, the Munich Security Report (MSR) was also published in the runup to the conference which analysed "increasing authoritarian revisionism and the competition between different visions of order" based on "human rights, global infrastructure, development, energy security and nuclear safety." &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Munich Security Conference (MSC), which is an annual conference on contemporary global security policy challenges, will take place from 17 February to 19 February this year.

Munich Security Conference (MSC), which is an annual conference on contemporary global security policy challenges, will take place from 17 February to 19 February this year. World leaders will put their heads together at Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich debating issues, the most important being Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Though Russia had been building its troops along the Ukrainian border, the full-blown invasion only took place after a few days of MSC 2022. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on February 27 last year addressed the country's parliament, Bundestag, where he termed Russia's invasion of Ukraine a watershed moment or zeitenwende (a german word which means: times-turn). Also Read | After Nicola Sturgeon's surprise step down, search begins to find successor The Munich Conference 2023 will see the participation of a slew of high-ranking international experts along with over 45 heads of government. Most important global organizations including the UN, NATO and the EU will be represented by their heads. The conference will take place under the chairmanship of Ambassador Dr. Christoph Heusgen. What will take centre stage in Munich Security Conference (MSC) discussions? Russia's invasion of Ukraine One of the most prominent questions that will be raised at the conference will be "What does the world look like a year after the beginning of the invasion?" and a closer look at whether the current situation entails a "global recommitment to a rules-based international order." Also Read | Violent protests erupt in Nigeria over scarcity of cash: Reports Voices from Global South Another main topic on the agenda is to look beyond the transatlantic core and put more emphasis on diverse perspectives from the Global South. The conference will "champion diversity and sustainability" in the form of either "gender parity amongst speakers" or "the inclusion of voices from the Global South." Watch | Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers This year, just like the last six decades, the event will be governed by the Munich Rule, which is to "Engage and interact with each other: Don't lecture or ignore one another." Earlier, the Munich Security Report (MSR) was also published in the runup to the conference which analysed "increasing authoritarian revisionism and the competition between different visions of order" based on "human rights, global infrastructure, development, energy security and nuclear safety." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage?

Monkeypox simulation results: Fictional nation, terror group and massive outbreak

India's relations with China was going through a "very difficult phase"&nbsp;after Beijing violated border agreements, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday, underlining that the "state of the border will determine the state of the relationship".

Jaishankar, addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2022 Panel Discussion here, said that there is a problem India is having with China

"And the problem is that for 45 years there was peace, there was stable border management, there were no military casualties on the border from 1975,"&nbsp;he said in response to a question from the host.

"That changed because we had agreements with China not to bring military forces to, we call it, the border but it's Line of Actual Control, and the Chinese violated those agreements,"&nbsp;Jaishankar said.

He said that "the state of the border will determine the state of the relationship, that's natural".

"So obviously relations with China right now are going through a very difficult phase,"&nbsp;the external affairs minister said, adding that India's relations with the West were quite decent even before June 2020.

The eastern Ladakh border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry.

The tension escalated following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley on June 15, 2020.

Jaishankar participated in a panel discussion on the Indo-Pacific at the MSC which is aimed at extensively deliberating on the escalating tension between the NATO countries and Russia over Ukraine.&nbsp;

India's relations with China was going through a "very difficult phase" after Beijing violated border agreements, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday, underlining that the "state of the border will determine the state of the relationship".

India's relations with China was going through a "very difficult phase" after Beijing violated border agreements, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday, underlining that the "state of the border will determine the state of the relationship". Jaishankar, addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2022 Panel Discussion here, said that there is a problem India is having with China "And the problem is that for 45 years there was peace, there was stable border management, there were no military casualties on the border from 1975," he said in response to a question from the host. "That changed because we had agreements with China not to bring military forces to, we call it, the border but it's Line of Actual Control, and the Chinese violated those agreements," Jaishankar said. He said that "the state of the border will determine the state of the relationship, that's natural". "So obviously relations with China right now are going through a very difficult phase," the external affairs minister said, adding that India's relations with the West were quite decent even before June 2020. The eastern Ladakh border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry. The tension escalated following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley on June 15, 2020. Jaishankar participated in a panel discussion on the Indo-Pacific at the MSC which is aimed at extensively deliberating on the escalating tension between the NATO countries and Russia over Ukraine.

'State of border will define relations with China', says India's foreign minister Jaishankar

Russia's claims it was pulling forces back from the Ukraine border are false, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement while speaking at Munich security conference.

Munich Security Conference 2022: Russia creating false provocations in Ukraine, says Antony Blinken

The Munich security conference has kicked off at its traditional venue. The conference will be dominated by the Ukraine crisis as major Western powers have warned Russia against launching an invasion in its neighbouring Ukraine.

Germany hosts annual security conference in Munich, preventing a Russian invasion in focus

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said nationalistic policies have been electorally validated in the US and China and economic rebalancing is becoming political rebalancing.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday, Jaishankar said "What has led to weaker multilateralism? We have seen in the last 20 years an economic rebalancing in the world. It was a question of time before the economic rebalancing translated into political rebalancing... If there is going to be political rebalancing then we are going to be in a transition era," he said

US Senator Lindsey Graham tried to raise the Kashmir issue at the conference and said, “When it comes to Kashmir, I don’t know how it ends, but let us make sure, two democracies will end it differently.“

Jaishankar replied, “don’t worry senator. One democracy will settle it, and you know which one!“

The minister stressed that the United Nations is far less credible today than it has been through its history, "which is not surprising because when you think about it, there are not too many things which are 75 years old and still as good as they were"."Clearly, there is something that needs to be done there," Jaishankar added. 
&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said nationalistic policies have been electorally validated in the US and China and economic rebalancing is becoming political rebalancing.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said nationalistic policies have been electorally validated in the US and China and economic rebalancing is becoming political rebalancing. Speaking during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday, Jaishankar said "What has led to weaker multilateralism? We have seen in the last 20 years an economic rebalancing in the world. It was a question of time before the economic rebalancing translated into political rebalancing... If there is going to be political rebalancing then we are going to be in a transition era," he said US Senator Lindsey Graham tried to raise the Kashmir issue at the conference and said, “When it comes to Kashmir, I don’t know how it ends, but let us make sure, two democracies will end it differently.“ Jaishankar replied, “don’t worry senator. One democracy will settle it, and you know which one!“ The minister stressed that the United Nations is far less credible today than it has been through its history, "which is not surprising because when you think about it, there are not too many things which are 75 years old and still as good as they were"."Clearly, there is something that needs to be done there," Jaishankar added.

World more nationalistic today, says External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Thursday embarked on a visit to Germany to attend an international security conference in Munich where leaders and defence experts from across the world will discuss security issues.

Speaking to reporters prior to his departure, Qureshi said he will present Pakistan's point of view on different issues of regional peace and security in the conference from February 15-17, the Radio Pakistan reported.

The meeting will be attended by the defence and foreign ministers and security experts from across the world.

The foreign minister said he will also hold meetings with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his counterparts from Russia, Germany, Uzbekistan and Canada.

He said Pakistan's role in the Afghanistan peace process is being globally "appreciated" and he will present the country's stance on the war-torn nation in the conference.

He said Pakistan has always supported peace efforts to bring stability to Afghanistan. ?Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process is being globally appreciated. We will use this opportunity to present our stance and hear the views of all parties, he said.

Qureshi is also expected to meet key US congressmen and members of the US Senate. The foreign minister said Pakistan-US relations have reached an important stage and it is his effort to reset the relations with the US.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Thursday embarked on a visit to Germany to attend an international security conference in Munich where leaders and defence experts from across the world will discuss security issues.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Thursday embarked on a visit to Germany to attend an international security conference in Munich where leaders and defence experts from across the world will discuss security issues. Speaking to reporters prior to his departure, Qureshi said he will present Pakistan's point of view on different issues of regional peace and security in the conference from February 15-17, the Radio Pakistan reported. The meeting will be attended by the defence and foreign ministers and security experts from across the world. The foreign minister said he will also hold meetings with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his counterparts from Russia, Germany, Uzbekistan and Canada. He said Pakistan's role in the Afghanistan peace process is being globally "appreciated" and he will present the country's stance on the war-torn nation in the conference. He said Pakistan has always supported peace efforts to bring stability to Afghanistan. ?Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process is being globally appreciated. We will use this opportunity to present our stance and hear the views of all parties, he said. Qureshi is also expected to meet key US congressmen and members of the US Senate. The foreign minister said Pakistan-US relations have reached an important stage and it is his effort to reset the relations with the US.

Qureshi in Germany to attend Munich Security Conference

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Tehran on Sunday over aggressions by what he called Iran and its &quot;proxies&quot; in Syria, while showing what he claimed was a piece of an Iranian drone shot down in Israeli airspace.

Saying he had &quot;a message to the tyrants of Tehran&quot; during a speech at the Munich Security Conference, he warned: &quot;Do not test Israel&#39;s resolve.&quot;

He brandished a rectangular piece of dark green metal which he called &quot;a piece of that Iranian drone, or what&#39;s left of it, after we shot it down.&quot;

Israel has said it shot down the drone on February 10 after it entered the country from Syria, and responded with a raid on what it said was the Iranian control systems for the craft in Syria.

It marked the first time Israel publicly acknowledged hitting Iranian targets in Syria since the 2011 start of the civil war there.

During the strikes, one of Israel&#39;s F-16 fighter jets was shot down, believed to be the first loss of an Israeli plane in combat since 1982.

Calling Iran&#39;s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif the &quot;smooth-talking mouthpiece of Iran&#39;s regime,&quot; Netanyahu said: &quot;Mr Zarif, do you recognise this? You should, it&#39;s yours.&quot;

Again referring to Zarif, who is scheduled to speak later in Munich, the Israeli leader said: &quot;No doubt Mr Zarif will brazenly deny Iran&#39;s involvement in Syria.&quot;

&quot;He lies with eloquence.&quot;

&#39;Noose of terror&#39; &nbsp;

The Israeli military has claimed the drone was a copy of a US model captured by Iran in 2011, based on an analysis of the drone&#39;s debris.

Tensions between the two countries have been building in recent months, with Israel fearing that Tehran is trying to establish a permanent presence in Syria as part of an effort to become a greater regional power in the Middle East.

At the same time, Syria appears to feel it now has the upper hand in the civil war and is more emboldened to stop Israeli air raids inside the country, analysts say.

But Netanyahu said Sunday that Israel would not let Iran obtain a permanent foothold in its northern neighbour.

&quot;Through its proxies -- Shiite militias in Iraq, the Huthis in Yemen, Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza -- Iran is devouring huge swathes of the Middle East,&quot; he said.

&quot;Israel will not allow Iran&#39;s regime to put a noose of terror around our neck,&quot; he added.

&quot;We will act without hesitation to defend ourselves. And we will act if necessary not just against Iran&#39;s proxies that are attacking us, but against Iran itself.&quot;

But he stressed that Israel was not the enemy of the Iranian people, and offered his condolences to the families of the 66 people killed in an Iranian plane crash Sunday.

&quot;We have no quarrel with the people of Iran, only with the regime that torments them,&quot; Netanyahu said.

He brandished a rectangular piece of dark green metal which he called "a piece of that Iranian drone, or what's left of it, after we shot it down."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Tehran on Sunday over aggressions by what he called Iran and its "proxies" in Syria, while showing what he claimed was a piece of an Iranian drone shot down in Israeli airspace. Saying he had "a message to the tyrants of Tehran" during a speech at the Munich Security Conference, he warned: "Do not test Israel's resolve." He brandished a rectangular piece of dark green metal which he called "a piece of that Iranian drone, or what's left of it, after we shot it down." Israel has said it shot down the drone on February 10 after it entered the country from Syria, and responded with a raid on what it said was the Iranian control systems for the craft in Syria. It marked the first time Israel publicly acknowledged hitting Iranian targets in Syria since the 2011 start of the civil war there. During the strikes, one of Israel's F-16 fighter jets was shot down, believed to be the first loss of an Israeli plane in combat since 1982. Calling Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif the "smooth-talking mouthpiece of Iran's regime," Netanyahu said: "Mr Zarif, do you recognise this? You should, it's yours." Again referring to Zarif, who is scheduled to speak later in Munich, the Israeli leader said: "No doubt Mr Zarif will brazenly deny Iran's involvement in Syria." "He lies with eloquence." 'Noose of terror' The Israeli military has claimed the drone was a copy of a US model captured by Iran in 2011, based on an analysis of the drone's debris. Tensions between the two countries have been building in recent months, with Israel fearing that Tehran is trying to establish a permanent presence in Syria as part of an effort to become a greater regional power in the Middle East. At the same time, Syria appears to feel it now has the upper hand in the civil war and is more emboldened to stop Israeli air raids inside the country, analysts say. But Netanyahu said Sunday that Israel would not let Iran obtain a permanent foothold in its northern neighbour. "Through its proxies -- Shiite militias in Iraq, the Huthis in Yemen, Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza -- Iran is devouring huge swathes of the Middle East," he said. "Israel will not allow Iran's regime to put a noose of terror around our neck," he added. "We will act without hesitation to defend ourselves. And we will act if necessary not just against Iran's proxies that are attacking us, but against Iran itself." But he stressed that Israel was not the enemy of the Iranian people, and offered his condolences to the families of the 66 people killed in an Iranian plane crash Sunday. "We have no quarrel with the people of Iran, only with the regime that torments them," Netanyahu said.

'Do not test Israel', Netanyahu tells Iran, brandishing drone 'piece'

Republican Senator John McCain broke with the reassuring message that US officials visiting Germany have sought to convey on their debut trip to Europe, saying on Friday that the administration of President Donald Trump was in &quot;disarray&quot;.

McCain, a known Trump critic, told the Munich Security Conference that the resignation of the new president&#39;s security adviser Michael Flynn over his contacts with Russia reflected deep problems in Washington.

&quot;I think that the Flynn issue obviously is something that shows that in many respects this administration is in disarray and they&#39;ve got a lot of work to do,&quot; said McCain, even as he praised Trump&#39;s defence secretary.

&quot;The president, I think, makes statements (and) on other occasions contradicts himself. So we&#39;ve learned to watch what the president does as opposed to what he says,&quot; he said.

European governments have been unsettled by the signals sent by Trump on a range of foreign policy issues ranging from NATO and Russia to Iran, Israel and European integration.

The debut trip to Europe of Trump&#39;s Defence Secretary James Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, to a meeting of G20 counterparts in Bonn, went some way to assuaging concerns as they both took a more traditional US position.

But Trump is wrestling with a growing controversy at home about potential ties between his aides and Russia, which he dismissed on Thursday as a &quot;ruse&quot; and &quot;scam&quot; perpetrated by a hostile news media.

Mattis made clear to allies, both at NATO in Brussels and in Munich, that the United States would not retreat from leadership as the European continent grapples with an assertive Russia, wars in eastern and southern Mediterranean countries and attacks by Islamist militants.

US Vice President Mike Pence will address the Munich conference on Saturday with a similar message of reassurance.

Pence will say that Europe is an &quot;indispensable partner&quot; for the United States, a senior White House foreign policy adviser told reporters.

Mattis told a crowd that included heads of state and more than 70 defence ministers that Trump backed NATO.

&quot;President Trump came into office and has thrown now his full support to NATO. He too espouses NATO&#39;s need to adapt to today&#39;s strategic situation for it to remain credible, capable and relevant,&quot; Mattis said.

Mattis said the United States and its European allies had a shared understanding of the challenges ahead. Trump has alarmed allies by expressing admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Mattis, however, has spoken out strongly against Russia while in Europe. After talks with NATO allies in Brussels on Thursday, he said that he did not believe it would be possible to collaborate militarily with Moscow, at least for now.

The Europeans may need more convincing that Washington stands with it on a range of security issues.

&quot;There is still a lot of uncertainty,&quot; Sebastian Kurz, Austria&#39;s foreign minister, told reporters. &quot;The big topic in Munich is looking to the USA to see which developments to expect next.&quot;

No Illusions

European intelligence agencies have warned that Russia is also seeking to destabilise governments and influence elections across Europe with cyber attacks, fake news and propaganda and by funding far-right political parties.

&quot;We should be under no illusions about the step-change in Russian behaviour over the last couple of years, even after Crimea,&quot; British Defence Minister Michael Fallon said, referring to Moscow&#39;s 2014 annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula.

&quot;We have seen a step-change in Russian military aggression, but also in propaganda, in misinformation and a succession of persistent attacks on Western democracies, interference in a whole series of elections including ... the United States.&quot;

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Munich, seeing progress on encouraging Moscow to be more open about its military exercises that the alliance says are unpredictable.

Russia says it is the Western alliance, not Moscow, that is destabilising Europe by sending troops to its western borders.

&quot;We have different views,&quot; Stoltenberg said of the crisis in Ukraine, where the West accuses the Kremlin of arming separatist rebels in a conflict that has killed 10,000 people since April 2014. Russia says the conflict is a civil war.

In the latest incident, Lithuanian prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into a false report of rape by German soldiers stationed there on a NATO mission to deter Russia.

Mattis, without explicitly citing the case, rallied to the defence of German forces as he spoke in the German city of Munich. &quot;I have great respect for Germany&#39;s leadership in Europe &ndash; and for the ethical performance of your troops on the battlefield,&quot; he said.

US intelligence agencies concluded last year that Russia hacked and leaked Democratic emails during the election campaign as part of an effort to tilt the vote in Trump&#39;s favour.

McCain acknowledged concern in Europe and beyond that America was &quot;laying down the mantle of global leadership&quot; and cited global trends he found disturbing, including hardening resentment toward immigrants and an unwillingness to separate truth from lies.

McCain urged the forum not to give up on the United States.

&quot;Make no mistake, my friends: These are dangerous times, but you should not count America out, and we should not count each other out,&quot; McCain said.

(Reuters)

He said the resignation of Trump's security adviser over his contacts with Russia reflected deep problems in Washington

Republican Senator John McCain broke with the reassuring message that US officials visiting Germany have sought to convey on their debut trip to Europe, saying on Friday that the administration of President Donald Trump was in "disarray". McCain, a known Trump critic, told the Munich Security Conference that the resignation of the new president's security adviser Michael Flynn over his contacts with Russia reflected deep problems in Washington. "I think that the Flynn issue obviously is something that shows that in many respects this administration is in disarray and they've got a lot of work to do," said McCain, even as he praised Trump's defence secretary. "The president, I think, makes statements (and) on other occasions contradicts himself. So we've learned to watch what the president does as opposed to what he says," he said. European governments have been unsettled by the signals sent by Trump on a range of foreign policy issues ranging from NATO and Russia to Iran, Israel and European integration. The debut trip to Europe of Trump's Defence Secretary James Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, to a meeting of G20 counterparts in Bonn, went some way to assuaging concerns as they both took a more traditional US position. But Trump is wrestling with a growing controversy at home about potential ties between his aides and Russia, which he dismissed on Thursday as a "ruse" and "scam" perpetrated by a hostile news media. Mattis made clear to allies, both at NATO in Brussels and in Munich, that the United States would not retreat from leadership as the European continent grapples with an assertive Russia, wars in eastern and southern Mediterranean countries and attacks by Islamist militants. US Vice President Mike Pence will address the Munich conference on Saturday with a similar message of reassurance. Pence will say that Europe is an "indispensable partner" for the United States, a senior White House foreign policy adviser told reporters. Mattis told a crowd that included heads of state and more than 70 defence ministers that Trump backed NATO. "President Trump came into office and has thrown now his full support to NATO. He too espouses NATO's need to adapt to today's strategic situation for it to remain credible, capable and relevant," Mattis said. Mattis said the United States and its European allies had a shared understanding of the challenges ahead. Trump has alarmed allies by expressing admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Mattis, however, has spoken out strongly against Russia while in Europe. After talks with NATO allies in Brussels on Thursday, he said that he did not believe it would be possible to collaborate militarily with Moscow, at least for now. The Europeans may need more convincing that Washington stands with it on a range of security issues. "There is still a lot of uncertainty," Sebastian Kurz, Austria's foreign minister, told reporters. "The big topic in Munich is looking to the USA to see which developments to expect next." No Illusions European intelligence agencies have warned that Russia is also seeking to destabilise governments and influence elections across Europe with cyber attacks, fake news and propaganda and by funding far-right political parties. "We should be under no illusions about the step-change in Russian behaviour over the last couple of years, even after Crimea," British Defence Minister Michael Fallon said, referring to Moscow's 2014 annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula. "We have seen a step-change in Russian military aggression, but also in propaganda, in misinformation and a succession of persistent attacks on Western democracies, interference in a whole series of elections including ... the United States." NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Munich, seeing progress on encouraging Moscow to be more open about its military exercises that the alliance says are unpredictable. Russia says it is the Western alliance, not Moscow, that is destabilising Europe by sending troops to its western borders. "We have different views," Stoltenberg said of the crisis in Ukraine, where the West accuses the Kremlin of arming separatist rebels in a conflict that has killed 10,000 people since April 2014. Russia says the conflict is a civil war. In the latest incident, Lithuanian prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into a false report of rape by German soldiers stationed there on a NATO mission to deter Russia. Mattis, without explicitly citing the case, rallied to the defence of German forces as he spoke in the German city of Munich. "I have great respect for Germany's leadership in Europe – and for the ethical performance of your troops on the battlefield," he said. US intelligence agencies concluded last year that Russia hacked and leaked Democratic emails during the election campaign as part of an effort to tilt the vote in Trump's favour. McCain acknowledged concern in Europe and beyond that America was "laying down the mantle of global leadership" and cited global trends he found disturbing, including hardening resentment toward immigrants and an unwillingness to separate truth from lies. McCain urged the forum not to give up on the United States. "Make no mistake, my friends: These are dangerous times, but you should not count America out, and we should not count each other out," McCain said. (Reuters)

Republican John McCain targets Trump, says administration in 'disarray'

munich-security-conference

Munich Security Conference, News on Munich Security Conference, stories on Munich Security Conference, articles on Munich Security Conference, Munich Security Conference stories at Wion, Munich Security Conference news, Munich Security Conference latest news

munich security-conference