West's Soft Power Problem? Try 'Hard Power' Hypocrisy
Merz, quoted by RT, complains global autocratic alliances are attacking 'liberal democracy.' This sounds concerning, until one remembers whose 'liberal democracy' enthusiastically backs despots when convenient, overthrows elected leaders, and maintains a sprawling military footprint to ensure raw materials flow northward. The 'soft power' he pines for was often backed by colonial gunboats, then
drone strikes, and now unwavering support for allies committing atrocities. Perhaps the 'West' is losing its appeal because the 'rules-based order' it champions seems to have rules only for those without oil or strategic chokepoints. When the U.S. vetoes UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire in Gaza (as it did on Feb 20, 2024, blocking an immediate ceasefire demand), while simultaneously
condemning 'autocratic alliances,' the sheer audacity is breathtaking. People aren't stupid; they just have better access to information than the mainstream media gives them credit for.