US-Europe ‘belong together’, says Marco Rubio at Munich Security Conference | World News

In his speech at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the US-European partnership is permanent. He described it as a vital alliance tackling major global challenges together.

Emphasizing Washington’s preference for cooperation, Rubio said, “We are ready to do this alone if necessary, but this is our choice and we hope to do it together with you, our friends in Europe.”

Emphasizing unity, Rubio said, “We belong together,” underscoring the enduring transatlantic relationship that faces increasing pressures during President Donald Trump’s second term.

While Rubio emphasized the Trump administration’s firm commitment to the alliance, he noted that America’s involvement can sometimes seem “direct and immediate in our council.”

Observers compared the tone of Rubio’s speech to comments made at the same forum last year by US Vice President J.D. Vance, who was notable for his criticism of Europe’s reliance on US support. While Rubio’s speech received intermittent applause, Vance’s earlier remarks continued to resonate with attendees.

During the speech, Rubio also underscored the administration’s belief that global institutions shaped by the previous world order must be “reformed” and “rebuilt” to reflect changes in U.S. foreign policy priorities.

While Rubio reaffirmed the historical importance of the alliance, he underlined the expectations for the recalibration of cooperation. “We want allies who can defend themselves, so that no adversary will be inclined to challenge our collective strength,” he said on Saturday.

The Trump administration has repeatedly called on its European partners to take more responsibility for regional security.

Reinforcing his position, Rubio added: “We want allies who are proud of their culture, their heritage… and who are willing and able to defend it with us. Because we in America have no intention of being polite and orderly guardians of the controlled decline of the West. We are trying not to divide, but to revive an old friendship.”

(with ANI entries)