Rubio Affirms Transatlantic Ties at Munich Security Conference

Sun Feb 15 2026 00:53:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizes the importance of US-Europe relations despite existing tensions, addressing key issues during his speech at the Munich Security Conference.

During the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured European leaders of the US commitment to the transatlantic alliance, asserting that its destiny remains intertwined with Europe. Although he criticized Europe's immigration and trade policies, he called for a revitalization of the friendship, marking a departure from previous sharp criticisms from the Trump administration. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her relief at Rubio's positive message.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has assured European leaders that the United States does not plan to abandon its transatlantic alliance, emphasizing that America’s destiny will always be linked to Europe. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Rubio stated, We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history.

Rubio proceeded to critique several European policies on immigration, trade, and climate during his address; however, the overall tone was notably more diplomatic compared to Vice President JD Vance's speech at the same event last year, which included scathing critiques of European leaders. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed feeling very much reassured by Rubio's remarks.

As the Trump administration's senior diplomat, Rubio asserted, It is neither our goal nor our wish to end the transatlantic partnership, reaffirming that American roots are deeply embedded in Europe. He stressed that the US aims to chart a path to prosperity together with its oldest friends.

While extending support for traditional alliances, Rubio reiterated common grievances held by the Trump administration towards Europe, describing immigration policies as threats to civilization and critiquing the influence of a climate cult on economic policies. On trade, he remarked that the US and Europe have erred in adopting a dogmatic vision of unrestricted trade, and he urged that Europe must increase its defense spending to bolster the strength of the alliance.

Rubio also directed sharp critiques at the United Nations, stating that it had played an ineffective role in key global conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, and declared the organization inadequate in curtailing Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Concluding his speech, Rubio indicated the uncertainty surrounding Russia's intentions in the ongoing war, committing to continue assessing their seriousness about peace. In parallel, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the conference that no one believes Vladimir Putin will cease his aggressive maneuvers, calling the Russian leader a slave to war.