US Secretary of State Says US and Europe Are Friends and Will Stay Together

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke at the Munich Security Conference. He said that the United States and Europe are very close and will always be partners. He reminded everyone of their shared history and said the US wants a strong Europe to work with.
By Newsroom | World News, Europe |

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has delivered a speech at the Munich Security Conference, emphasizing the enduring connection between the United States and Europe. His remarks come at a time of considerable global flux, with European nations exploring greater defense autonomy and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine dominating discussions. Rubio sought to project a message of continued American commitment, asserting that the destinies of the US and Europe are "intertwined."

US and Europe ‘will always be intertwined’, Rubio tells security gathering - 1

Unifying Messages at a Critical Juncture

The Munich Security Conference has convened with key discussions centered on the war in Ukraine and Europe's strategic independence. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's address aimed to reinforce the transatlantic alliance, presenting a notably different tone compared to some past US representations at the forum.

US and Europe ‘will always be intertwined’, Rubio tells security gathering - 2

  • Rubio stated that the US "does not want to separate from Europe but revitalise" the alliance.

  • He described Europe as the US's "oldest friend" and "cherished ally," stressing a desire for a strong Europe.

  • The conference also featured discussions on increasing European defense spending and autonomy.

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was also in attendance and scheduled to address the gathering.

Historical Echoes and Present Commitments

Rubio drew upon historical precedent to underscore the intrinsic link between the US and Europe. He referenced the "two great wars of the last century" as a significant reminder of this shared destiny.

Read More: Leaders Talk About Global Security at Munich Meeting

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"The two great wars of the last century serve, for us, as history's great reminder, that ultimately, our destiny is, and will always be, intertwined with yours." - Marco Rubio

This sentiment was echoed by other speakers, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noting that "an independent Europe is a strong Europe, and a strong Europe makes for a stronger transatlantic alliance." She also highlighted a "true European awakening" in defense investment.

US and Europe ‘will always be intertwined’, Rubio tells security gathering - 4

  • US Intent: The US seeks to maintain a strong alliance with Europe, not to abandon it.

  • Historical Parallel: Past global conflicts serve as a clear indication of intertwined fates.

  • European Perspective: A stronger Europe benefits the broader transatlantic partnership.

Strategic Realignment and Shared Challenges

While affirming unity, Rubio also addressed broader strategic concepts and potential challenges facing the West. His remarks touched upon the perceived flaws in globalist ideologies and the complexities of international relations.

Read More: UK Leader Says Europe Must Be Ready for Conflict

  • Rubio described the idea of a "world without borders" and the prioritization of a global order over national interests as "foolish."

  • He also commented on mass migration, suggesting it poses a threat to the cohesion of Western countries.

  • Discussions at the conference also included the situation in Gaza, the impact of Iran, and the imperative for dialogue between the US and China.

"The idea of a world without borders… turned out to be 'foolish,' US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Saturday."

Reconciling Ties Amidst Divergent Views

The current US administration's engagement at the Munich Security Conference marked a shift from previous instances where a more confrontational tone was adopted. Rubio's articulation of unity contrasted with past criticisms leveled against European policies.

  • Contrast to Previous Year: Rubio's speech differed from that of Vice President JD Vance a year prior, who had criticized European policies on immigration and free speech.

  • European Autonomy: European leaders are actively pursuing greater defense independence, a topic discussed extensively at the conference.

  • Ongoing Conflict: The war in Ukraine remains a central concern, with allies seeking to rally support for the country.

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"Mr Rubio's speech marked a sharp contrast to that of US Vice President JD Vance a year ago, when he used the same stage to attack European policies on immigration and free speech, shocking European allies."

Expert Analysis on Transatlantic Relations

The nuances of Rubio's message have been a subject of commentary among security analysts. Some view his reaffirmation of ties as a positive step, while others note the underlying challenges to the alliance.

  • Strengths: The emphasis on shared history and destiny serves as a foundational element for continued cooperation.

  • Undercurrents: European efforts towards strategic autonomy suggest a desire for greater self-reliance, even within the alliance.

  • Future Outlook: The long-term health of the transatlantic relationship will depend on navigating differing national interests and evolving global threats.

Conclusion and Implications

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's address at the Munich Security Conference has underscored a commitment to the transatlantic alliance, aiming to assuage concerns about potential US disengagement. His pronouncements on the intertwined destinies of the US and Europe, coupled with a historical perspective, suggest a desire to fortify these long-standing ties.

Read More: US Secretary Rubio Questions Western Ideas at Munich Meeting

The conference serves as a significant venue for discussing Europe's growing emphasis on defense autonomy, a trend acknowledged by both US and European officials. The enduring conflict in Ukraine continues to be a primary driver for these discussions.

  • Key Finding: The US reaffirms its dedication to a strong and unified transatlantic partnership.

  • Emerging Trend: Europe is actively pursuing greater strategic and defense independence.

  • Ongoing Challenge: The conflict in Ukraine remains a central focus for alliance cohesion and strategic planning.

  • Future Direction: The US seeks to collaborate with a strengthened Europe in navigating global challenges.

Sources Used:

Read More: US Official Rubio Says Old World Order is Over, Europe Seeks Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What did the US Secretary of State say about Europe?
He said that the US and Europe are like old friends and their futures are linked together. He wants Europe to be strong.
Q: Why is this important now?
Europe is trying to become stronger and handle its own defense. The US wants to show it will still support Europe.
Q: What else was talked about at the meeting?
Leaders also talked about the war in Ukraine and how Europe can be more independent in defense matters.