Munich – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday urged European nations to stand firmly alongside Washington, saying the United States wants to revive and strengthen the transatlantic alliance under President Donald Trump’s leadership.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Rubio sought to calm growing anxiety among European leaders after months of strained relations triggered by Donald Trump’s confrontational rhetoric toward U.S. allies and controversial statements about global security and trade.
Rubio said Washington’s goal was not to distance itself from Europe but to “recharge” the alliance so that a stronger Europe could partner with the United States in what he described as a broader mission of global renewal.
“We do not seek to separate,” Rubio told the audience. “We seek to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history. We want a reinvigorated alliance — one where Europe is confident, capable, and willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with the United States.”
Reassurance After Months of Tension
Rubio’s remarks came after a turbulent period in U.S.-European relations, marked by Trump’s repeated criticism of NATO allies for defense spending, trade disputes with the European Union, and remarks about U.S. strategic interests in Greenland, which unsettled European capitals.
In recent months, European leaders have expressed concern that Washington may scale back its long-standing security commitments or adopt a more transactional approach to alliances. Rubio acknowledged those concerns but insisted that the Trump administration sees Europe as an essential partner, not a rival.
“A strong Europe is not a threat to America,” Rubio said. “A strong Europe helps America. It helps us confront shared challenges — from security threats to economic competition and the defense of democratic values.”
Call to Share the Burden
While offering reassurance, Rubio also made clear that the United States expects Europe to take on a greater share of responsibility, particularly in defense and global security.
He echoed Trump’s long-standing argument that European nations must invest more in their own military capabilities and play a larger role in maintaining international stability.
“This alliance works best when it is balanced,” Rubio said. “America will lead, but leadership requires partners who are prepared, committed, and capable.”
Europe’s Place in Trump’s Vision
Rubio framed Trump’s foreign policy as a push to reform — not abandon — long-standing institutions and alliances. He said Europe “belongs with the United States” in shaping the next phase of the global order, rather than drifting toward strategic ambiguity or neutrality.
“The future of the West is not inevitable,” Rubio said. “It has to be defended, renewed, and strengthened. And that can only happen if Europe and America act together.”
Mixed Reactions From European Leaders
European officials listening to Rubio’s speech responded cautiously, welcoming the conciliatory tone but remaining wary of policy unpredictability from Washington.
Several diplomats said privately that while Rubio’s message was reassuring, Europe would judge the administration by its actions — particularly on NATO commitments, Ukraine policy, and trade relations — rather than rhetoric alone.
The Munich conference has once again highlighted the fragile state of transatlantic relations, even as both sides acknowledge that cooperation remains critical amid rising global instability and competition with China and Russia.