Washington: European leaders have signalled a renewed commitment to transatlantic unity following remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference, easing months of strain in US–European relations.
Speaking at the high-profile gathering, Mr Rubio called for a revitalisation of the transatlantic alliance, emphasising partnership rather than division. His remarks were widely interpreted as an attempt to reset relations after a period marked by sharp rhetoric and policy disagreements.
Tensions had escalated following statements by US President Donald Trump, including controversial comments about annexing Greenland—an autonomous territory of NATO member Denmark—and criticism of European allies. Relations were further tested last year when US Vice President J. D. Vance delivered a speech at the same conference criticising European policies on issues such as free speech.
In contrast, Mr Rubio struck a conciliatory tone. “We are not trying to separate, but to revive an old friendship and renew the greatest civilisation in human history,” he said, underscoring Washington’s desire to strengthen the alliance. He added that a strong Europe is essential to supporting the United States’ global objectives.
However, Mr Rubio reiterated concerns frequently voiced by Mr Trump regarding immigration, describing mass migration as a destabilising force across Western societies.
Mixed Reactions in Europe
European leaders responded cautiously but positively. Ursula von der Leyen stressed that Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security and defence, while highlighting the importance of close ties with the United Kingdom a decade after Brexit.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the call for resilience, urging the development of a stronger industrial base to boost defence production. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted that while France and Britain have discussed strengthening their nuclear capabilities, Europe’s deterrence framework cannot replace the US nuclear umbrella.
Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur welcomed Mr Rubio’s remarks, saying it was important to demonstrate that the US and Europe remain allies and partners.
However, former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis expressed scepticism, describing the speech as “polite words” and questioning whether the improved tone would endure.
Zelensky’s Warning on Russia
In a keynote address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sharply criticised Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him a “slave to war.” Mr Zelensky said Russian attacks have damaged or destroyed every power plant in Ukraine and urged Western allies to accelerate the delivery of air defence systems.
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