Rubio to European leaders: 'We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship'

Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for U.S. and European leaders to "revitalize an old friendship" in his speech at the annual Munich Security Conference.

Rubio struck a tone that was less confrontational than remarks from other administration officials in recent months, but he still made clear that Washington intends to pursue change in the alliance and in major global institutions.

Speaking on Saturday to the gathered leaders, Rubio highlighted the deep historical connections between the U.S. and Europe and emphasized that their alliance remains vital despite disagreements on certain issues.

"We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history," he said.

At the conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz set the stage by urging that the United States and Europe “repair and revive trans-Atlantic trust together.” European leaders reinforced that they would continue to uphold their own positions on free speech, climate policy and free trade.

Rubio reiterated key critiques of current Western policy trends, including what he described as “a climate cult” and “an unprecedented wave of mass migration that threatens the cohesion of our societies.” 

He argued that following the end of the Cold War, the West fell into a “dangerous delusion” that global integration and liberal democracy would spread unchallenged.

"And so this is why we Americans may sometimes come off as a little direct and urgent in our counsel.  This is why President Trump demands seriousness and reciprocity from our friends here in Europe.  The reason why, my friends, is because we care deeply.  We care deeply about your future and ours," he said.