Rubio Asserts U.S. Not Seeking Separation from Europe, Outlines Future Aligned with Trump's Terms

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Rubio Asserts U.S. Not Seeking Separation from Europe, Outlines Future Aligned with Trump's Terms

In a significant address delivered at the Munich Security Conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to reassure European allies of America's commitment to the transatlantic relationship. "The United States does not want to end its historic alliance with Europe," Rubio declared, a statement that was met with palpable relief among many leaders on the continent who have grown anxious about potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy.

However, Rubio's remarks were not solely about reaffirming existing ties. He proceeded to articulate a vision for the future that appeared heavily influenced by the policy framework and rhetoric of former President Donald Trump. This vision included pointed criticisms of "mass immigration" and what he disparagingly referred to as "climate cultism," signaling a potential return to more nationalistic and protectionist policies should Trump return to power.

Speaking in Munich, Germany, Rubio acknowledged what he described as "joint mistakes" made by the U.S. and Europe over recent decades. These included, in his view, the "outsourcing of sovereignty" to international organizations and an embrace of a "dogmatic view of free trade." This critique suggested a desire for greater national autonomy and a re-evaluation of globalist tendencies that have shaped international relations since World War II.

Echoing Trump's signature talking points, the Secretary of State asserted that unchecked mass immigration poses a threat to the social cohesion and cultural continuity of Western societies, both in the U.S. and Europe. This framing aligns with a broader conservative argument that prioritizes national identity and border security over open-door policies, often linking immigration to societal strain and cultural dilution.

Rubio's appearance at the conference came a year after a similar address by J.D. Vance, a close Trump ally, which foreshadowed a period of significant friction between European capitals and Washington throughout 2025. Rubio's speech, therefore, was closely scrutinized for clues about the direction of American foreign policy under a potential second Trump administration.

"Under President Trump, the U.S. will once again take up the task of renewal and restoration, driven by a vision of a future as proud, vital, and sovereign as our civilization of the past," Rubio stated, directly invoking Trump's likely campaign theme. He added, "And while we are prepared to do this together, it is our preference—and hope—to do so jointly with you, our friends in Europe. Because the U.S. and Europe must be together."

While Rubio skirted over recent bilateral tensions, such as Trump's controversial attempts to purchase Greenland from Denmark, he emphasized the intertwined destinies of Europeans and Americans. His remarks implicitly suggested that a strong transatlantic partnership, albeit one potentially reshaped by American priorities, remains a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.

The address, one of the most anticipated at the conference, also advocated for a "new century for the West." This concept involved re-industrialization and the creation of supply chains resilient to geopolitical pressures, particularly from China. Simultaneously, Rubio called for an end to open-border policies, framing them as detrimental to national sovereignty and security.

Furthermore, Rubio echoed the sentiments of many European officials by stressing the need for Europe to possess the means to defend itself. This point underscored the ongoing debate about burden-sharing within NATO and the strategic autonomy of European defense capabilities.

Rubio reserved some of his sharpest criticisms for the international system, particularly the United Nations. He argued that the UN, despite its potential, has become largely ineffective in addressing critical global issues. "The UN still has tremendous potential to be a force for good in the world. But we cannot ignore that today, on the most critical matters, it has no answers and has played virtually no role," he stated, citing the conflicts in Gaza and U.S. actions related to Iran's nuclear program as examples of the UN's paralysis.

Concluding his remarks, Rubio declared, "We in America have no interest in being the polite caretakers of the West's decline. We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history." This statement encapsulated a nationalist yet outwardly engaged foreign policy stance, aiming to restore American leadership while prioritizing national interests and traditional Western values.

Ekhbary News Agency