Rubio Extends Hand in Munich: 'Our Destinies Intertwined, We Want a Strong Europe'

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Rubio Extends Hand in Munich: 'Our Destinies Intertwined, We Want a Strong Europe'

ROME, February 14, 2026, 20:32 CET – In a stark contrast to previous diplomatic tensions, the Munich Security Conference witnessed what could be described as a transatlantic truce yesterday, as Marco Rubio, the chief of American diplomacy, chose to play the 'good cop'. In his highly anticipated – and somewhat feared – speech, Rubio significantly altered the tone compared to JD Vance's shocking attack last year. He explicitly extended a hand to the Old Continent, stating that Washington 'wants Europe to be strong' because 'our destiny is intertwined with yours'. These remarks aimed to reassure European leaders gathered in Bavaria that the US 'does not seek to divide, but to revitalize the ancient transatlantic friendship'.

Rubio's words were met with significant relief, albeit coupled with caution, by European leaders. These leaders, notably European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, reiterated in Munich the necessity of pursuing a path towards 'a more independent Europe' in its security. While the tone had shifted from a year ago, the essence of the American 'music' remained largely consistent. Rubio described 'the illusion of the end of history' after World War II as the 'original sin' leading to 'deviations' favored by Donald Trump: 'the dogmatic vision of free trade,' 'the climate sect with energy policies that have impoverished us,' and 'the search for a world without borders that opened the doors to mass immigration.' However, this time, Rubio did not directly point fingers at European chancelleries; instead, he spoke of 'errors we have made together,' emphasizing that 'we have a duty to our people to face reality.'

Rubio clearly stated that 'under Donald Trump, the United States wants to take on the task of renewing and rebuilding our civilization,' clarifying that while 'we are ready to achieve this alone, it is our preference to do so with you.' The recipe remains the tycoon's familiar one: defense of nations, border control, an end to de-industrialization, and a reform of the United Nations, which, according to the US diplomat, 'had no role' in resolving conflicts. This vision, though presented with greater diplomatic finesse, reflects a continuity in the agenda that Trump might pursue if he returns to power.

In a clear bid to appeal to European sentiment, Rubio asserted: 'In an era where headlines announce the end of the transatlantic era, let it be clear to all that this is neither our goal nor our desire. We will always be children of Europe.' He crafted a shrewd speech aimed at tapping into a certain European pride, celebrating 'the Italian explorer' Christopher Columbus, 'the first colonies founded by the English,' and the German farmers 'who transformed the Midwest.' He also recalled moments when 'we died side by side on battlefields from Kapyong to Kandahar.'

Rubio concluded his address by stating: 'Today I am here to make it clear that America is charting the path for a new century of prosperity. And once again, we want to do it with you, our dear allies and our oldest friends.' The speech was met with applause and a standing ovation. 'I don't know if he caught the sigh of relief,' remarked MSC President Wolfgang Ischinger to Rubio. The danger of a 'Vance-2' scenario receded, and the 'fracture' highlighted by Friedrich Merz on Friday seemed less profound. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani affirmed that 'it was a positive speech' demonstrating that 'transatlantic relations are solid.'

However, despite the cautious optimism, the assessment in the Bavarian corridors was that while the US diplomat was certainly more courteous than Vance, he did not illustrate any fundamental change in the Trump administration's policy line. German diplomacy chief Johann Wadephul noted, 'It was a good start' for the future, but 'we don't need any more advice.' Thus, while Volodymyr Zelensky invoked 'transatlantic unity' against Russia, Europe has no choice but to remain prudent and confirm its commitment to strengthening the European pillar of NATO, for its own security benefit. This concept was reiterated throughout the second day of the Munich Conference, starting with Ursula von der Leyen, who insisted on Europe's need 'to become more independent' from defense to energy. Keir Starmer also chose the Munich stage to put the spirit of Brexit behind him – 'we are no longer the Britain of those years' – and promote 'a more European NATO.' He then announced the deployment of aircraft carriers in the North Atlantic, sending a dual message: responding to American security requests in the area and strengthening Europe's presence in a region experiencing increasing tensions with Washington. This development reflects a broader strategic shift as Europe and the UK seek to redefine their security roles in a changing world.

Ekhbary News Agency