US Secretary of State Marco Rubio struck a notably softer tone while addressing European leaders at the Munich Security Conference, emphasizing unity and partnership across the Atlantic.
Rubio said the United States and Europe “belong together” and expressed Washington’s desire to see a strong and stable Europe. He added that while the US under President Donald Trump is prepared to act alone if necessary, it prefers to work alongside its European allies in what he described as a global “renewal and restoration.”
His remarks contrasted with last year’s speech by Vice President JD Vance, who had openly criticized European policies. Still, Rubio reiterated concerns about mass migration, warning it could destabilize Western societies.
European leaders responded by stressing greater responsibility for their own security, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted the importance of a strong Europe within a strong NATO alliance.
French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz all called for deeper cooperation while acknowledging recent strains. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continued diplomatic talks on the sidelines of the conference.
