US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has assured European leaders the US does not plan to abandon the transatlantic alliance, saying its destiny 'will always be intertwined' with the continent's.
He told the Munich Security Conference: We do not seek to separate, but to revitalise an old friendship and renew the greatest civilisation in human history.
Rubio criticized European immigration, trade, and climate policies, but the overall tenor of the closely-watched speech was markedly different to Vice-President JD Vance's at the same event last year, during which he scolded continental leaders.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was very much reassured by Rubio's remarks.
Rubio, the Trump administration's most senior diplomat, emphasized it was neither our goal nor our wish to end the transatlantic partnership, stating: For us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe.
He reiterated the US's commitment towards a prosperous future alongside European allies, while simultaneously addressing concerns regarding Europe’s defense investments and immigration policies.
In response, Von der Leyen noted Rubio as a good friend, a strong ally, underscoring her commitment to a strong Europe.
Throughout his address, Rubio expressed dissatisfaction with the United Nations, criticizing its ineffectiveness in resolving conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, and warned opposition to Russia's military actions would remain a priority for the US.
