Marco Rubio's Call for Transatlantic Unity Gains Mixed Reactions at Munich Conference

In a significant address at the Munich Security Conference, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the unity between the United States and Europe, declaring the U.S. a 'child of Europe.' Rubio’s speech, delivered amid ongoing tensions in transatlantic relations, aimed to provide reassurance but was met with mixed reactions from European leaders.

While Rubio's tone was more conciliatory than Vice President JD Vance's previous address, critics noted the absence of concrete commitments, especially concerning Russia. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed reassurance, but skepticism persisted among others, such as former Lithuanian foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis.

The conference highlighted the ongoing need for transatlantic cooperation. British PM Keir Starmer advocated for bolstering military readiness and closer economic ties with Europe. The event underscored the importance of rethinking relations in light of global political shifts and tensions between major powers.