Munich Security Conference Excludes Russian and Iranian Officials This Year, Reports Reuters

By Andreas Rinke

BERLIN (Reuters) – Officials from Russia and Iran have not received invitations to this year’s Munich Security Conference, as their willingness for substantial dialogue appears lacking, according to the event’s chairperson.

The conference, often referred to as “Davos for defence,” will be held in the southern German city from February 16-18. It comes just days before the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and four months after the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has exacerbated instability in the Middle East as Western countries confront Iran-backed groups in Iraq, Yemen, and Syria.

Christoph Heusgen expressed hope that the meeting would address these ongoing conflicts, along with others that have garnered less attention but are contributing to significant humanitarian crises, such as the prolonged war in Sudan, which has displaced millions.

Heusgen noted that U.S. and Chinese officials engaged in dialogue at last year’s conference, marking a notable step forward in relations. “We hope Munich provides a platform for additional progress,” he stated, drawing from his experience advising former Chancellor Angela Merkel on foreign policy.

He also anticipated the participation of senior Chinese officials, recalling the attendance of top diplomat Wang Yi last year. Heusgen clarified that Iranian and Russian governments were not invited due to their lack of genuine interest in negotiations; however, he mentioned that non-governmental organizations from these countries would be present.

Recently criticized by Israel’s ambassador to Germany for cautioning against an Israeli ground offensive in Gaza, Heusgen expected high-ranking Israeli officials to attend the conference. He highlighted Germany’s complicated position regarding Israel, balancing its commitment to the nation’s security while expressing disagreements with the current leadership, leading to the suspension of bilateral government talks.

Heusgen commended Germany’s robust support for Ukraine, positioning the country as the second-largest provider of military assistance to Kyiv. Nevertheless, he emphasized the need for a nationwide dialogue on the importance of increased defense spending and potential funding strategies.