Munich Security Conference
Rubio Tells Europe Alliance Endures — But Policies Must Shift
“We belong together,” Rubio says in Munich — even as he presses Europe on migration, climate and cultural identity.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio struck a conciliatory tone at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, assuring European leaders that Washington remains committed to the transatlantic alliance — while also repeating criticisms that have unsettled allies in recent years.
“In a time of headlines heralding the end of the transatlantic era, let it be known and clear to all that this is neither our goal nor our wish,” Rubio told diplomats and security officials gathered in Munich. “For the United States and Europe, we belong together.”
His remarks sought to ease concerns that President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda signals retreat from Europe. Rubio emphasized shared heritage and long-standing cooperation, framing the alliance as foundational rather than optional.
Yet beneath the rhetoric of unity, Rubio reiterated familiar grievances. He criticized European leaders over mass migration, climate policy and what he suggested was a drift away from cultural confidence. While the speech avoided the sharper confrontational tone that Vice President JD Vance delivered at last year’s conference, it echoed similar themes.
Notably, Rubio did not mention Russia — Europe’s primary security concern — nor did he explicitly reference NATO during his address. The omission drew quiet scrutiny among some attendees, given the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising geopolitical tensions.
European officials described the speech as reassuring in tone but light on specifics. One senior diplomat said Rubio’s emphasis on emotional and historical bonds signaled that cooperation remains possible, albeit “in a different formula.”
Others were less convinced. Democratic Senator Andy Kim said Rubio missed an opportunity to address pressing global security challenges, including Ukraine and China.
The address came as European leaders increasingly discuss strengthening their own defense capabilities. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has acknowledged talks with France on European nuclear deterrence, while French President Emmanuel Macron has urged greater strategic autonomy.
Rubio’s message was clear: the alliance endures, but Washington expects Europe to adjust. Whether that recalibration strengthens or strains transatlantic ties remains an open question.
A turning point in European defense? Macron says the continent must redefine its security — with a new, “holistic” nuclear strategy.
French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that Europe must redefine its security architecture independently, arguing that the continent can no longer rely solely on existing frameworks as it confronts an assertive Russia.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Macron said Europeans must prepare for a future in which they negotiate their own security arrangements, rather than leaving such decisions to outside powers. “We have to be the ones to negotiate this new architecture of security for Europe,” he said, noting that geography ensures Europe will continue to coexist with Russia.
Macron suggested that redefining Europe’s defense posture could include a more “holistic” approach to nuclear deterrence — an area traditionally guarded as a strictly national prerogative. France, the European Union’s only nuclear-armed state, has begun what Macron described as a “new strategic dialogue” with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other European leaders.
The talks aim to explore how France’s national nuclear doctrine could align more closely with broader European security interests. Macron said the dialogue seeks to create strategic convergence, particularly between France and Germany.
Merz confirmed that confidential discussions on deterrence are underway but stressed that Germany remains bound by its commitments under NATO’s nuclear-sharing framework. He said Berlin would not support the emergence of “zones of differing security” across Europe.
Macron’s remarks reflect growing debate within Europe over long-term reliance on the U.S. security umbrella. While he did not call for replacing NATO, his comments signal that European leaders are increasingly weighing options for greater strategic autonomy.
Beyond defense policy, Macron also defended Europe against criticism that it is overregulated, economically stagnant or socially restrictive. He urged Europeans to adopt a more confident posture, arguing that the continent’s strengths are often overshadowed by negative narratives.
Macron said he would provide further details on his security proposals in the coming weeks, as Europe continues to reassess its strategic footing amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
Rubio Tells Europe Alliance Endures — But Policies Must Shift
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