Cyprus Times

“Middle Powers” in the New World

Published January 25, 2026, 11:06
“Middle Powers” in the New World

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that the international order is under attack by the great powers, who rely on strength and violence. This is a historical turning point that requires Europe to chart a realistic course, based on security, competitiveness, and cohesion. Merz acknowledged that Europe has shown weaknesses in various areas, such as geopolitics, diplomacy, economics, and communication. He urged Europe to wake up and face the challenges posed by the great powers. Canadian Prime Minister Marc Carney, from the same platform, appealed to the “middle powers” to resist the brutality that is emerging as the new norm. He argued that middle powers have significant “weapons,” such as human rights, respect for sovereign rights, and solidarity. The speech by Trump in Davos is considered a confirmation of the new reality, where strength and violence take precedence. Europe is called upon to take on its historical mission and shape a new path, based on realism and the protection of its values.