U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that transatlantic ties are at a “defining moment” as he prepares to represent Washington at the 62nd Munich Security Conference amid lingering tensions with European allies over the direction of U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump. Rubio struck a noticeably warmer and more cooperative tone ahead of the conference’s opening Friday, contrasting with last year’s confrontational atmosphere when Vice President J.D. Vance sharply criticised European partners and fuelled concerns about the future of the post‑World War II alliance.
Speaking before departing for Munich, Rubio acknowledged that the global geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically, saying “the old world is gone” and emphasising that the United States and Europe remain deeply linked despite rapid change. He framed the relationship as one requiring thoughtful re‑examination rather than abandonment, signalling an effort to reassure allies while still recognising the challenges ahead.
The Munich Security Conference, a major annual gathering of global security officials, opens against a backdrop of multiple simultaneous crises including Russia’s war in Ukraine, conflict in Gaza and instability in Sudan. European partners have grown increasingly wary after a year of disruptive rhetoric from Washington, including controversial remarks by Vance that criticised European immigration and free speech policies and comments by Trump on tariffs and territorial ambitions such as Greenland that strained NATO unity.
Rubio’s attendance and more conciliatory approach are intended to stabilise relations and focus discussions on shared security priorities at the forum, which brings together heads of state, ministers and policymakers from around the world. Conference organisers and European officials say transatlantic relations currently face a crisis of confidence and credibility, but Rubio’s engagement, including planned meetings with key European leaders, aims to signal continued U.S. commitment to cooperation on defence, Ukraine’s security and broader geopolitical challenges.
German officials have acknowledged irritation within NATO over some recent U.S. comments, underscoring the need for frank discussion at Munich. While Europe’s dependence on U.S. military support remains significant, many leaders are also exploring ways to strengthen their own defence capabilities and strategic autonomy in response to evolving global risks.
Rubio’s remarks and the broader diplomatic engagement at the Munich Security Conference reflect efforts to mend frayed ties, reaffirm the transatlantic partnership and shape a forward‑looking framework for cooperation amid widespread geopolitical uncertainty.
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