“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.
