At the Munich Security Conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the importance of a strong transatlantic alliance, describing the United States and Europe as “complementary partners” with a shared destiny. However, alongside his conciliatory tone, Rubio delivered pointed criticism of European migration policies.
“We want Europe to be strong. We believe Europe’s survival is essential,” Rubio said, adding that under President Donald Trump, the United States seeks to lead a global “renewal and reform” process. While Washington is prepared to act alone if necessary, Rubio emphasized that it prefers to move forward together with its allies.
Observers noted that Rubio’s remarks appeared more measured than those delivered last year by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who sharply criticized European positions on migration and free speech at the same forum.
Despite the softer tone, Rubio warned that mass migration is creating “instability” in the Western world and could lead to the “erosion of civilization.” Such concerns have frequently been echoed by senior officials in the Trump administration.
However, former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis disagreed with Rubio’s assessment, arguing that Europeans do not see migration as their primary challenge. “For Europeans, the main concern is security,” he said.
Tensions also persist over President Trump’s expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory of NATO member Denmark. The proposal has angered several European leaders, even as they pledge to increase defense spending within NATO.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said that “a strong Europe within a strong NATO means a stronger transatlantic bond.” French President Emmanuel Macron stressed that Europe is building its own security architecture, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Europeans to be ready to defend their values.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged that cultural disputes have created a “rift” between Europe and the United States, calling on Washington to help repair trust. “In this era of great power competition, the United States is not strong enough to walk alone,” he said.
As the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the conference and was scheduled to meet Rubio. At the White House, President Trump has urged Zelenskyy to take steps toward ending the war, saying Russia appears willing to reach a deal.
Rubio also addressed relations with China and Iran, stating that managing ties with China responsibly is a global obligation for the United States. On Iran, he said that while Trump remains interested in reaching an agreement, doing so would be “extremely difficult.”
