U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to reassure European allies on Saturday, February 14, 2026, affirming Washington’s commitment to the transatlantic partnership amid concerns fueled by recent rhetoric and policy shifts.
The effort to mend fences comes as anxieties rise across Europe following statements from President Donald Trump regarding Greenland and a series of critical remarks directed at long-standing allies. The situation highlights the importance of the U.S.-Europe relationship in a shifting global landscape.
“We do not want to decouple, but to revitalize our traditional friendship and renew the greatest civilization in the history of mankind,” Rubio stated during the Munich Security Conference. “What we want is a revitalized alliance.”
Rubio emphasized the importance of a strong Europe, stating, “We want Europe to be strong. We believe Europe must survive.” He further asserted that Europe and the United States “belong together,” adding that the U.S. Would be driven by a vision of the future characterized by pride, sovereignty, and a stature commensurate with its historical legacy.
“And although we are ready to do this alone, if necessary, our desire and hope is to do this with you, our friends here in Europe,” he said.
The Secretary of State’s remarks represent a distinct departure from those delivered by Vice President J.D. Vance at the same conference last year, when he criticized European policies on immigration and freedom of expression, causing consternation among European partners.
Rubio reiterated the Trump administration’s position that migration is “destabilizing societies,” but largely avoided addressing the divisions and cultural conflicts referenced by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday, who said they were deepening the “rift” between the U.S. And Europe.
Following a series of challenging statements from Trump, including the recent focus on Greenland, European leaders gathered at the Munich conference pledged to increase their contributions to collective defense within NATO.
Several European leaders advocated for this increased burden-sharing as crucial for countering potential threats from Russia. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that “a strong Europe in a strong NATO means that the transatlantic relationship will be stronger than ever.”
French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at the conference on Friday, argued that “now is the time for a strong Europe” to “clearly support Ukraine” and “build its own security structure.”
“This Europe will be a good ally and partner for the United States,” Macron said.
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Source: cna
