Rubio Expresses Desire to Maintain Transatlantic Ties Despite Growing Divide

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized America's desire to preserve the transatlantic alliance.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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In a speech at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized America's desire to preserve the transatlantic alliance, despite growing divisions between the US and its European allies.

Why it matters

The transatlantic relationship between the US and Europe has been strained in recent years due to disagreements on issues like trade, defense spending, and foreign policy. Rubio's comments suggest the US is seeking to mend these tensions and maintain close ties with its European partners.

The details

Rubio delivered his remarks at the annual Munich Security Conference, a major global forum for foreign policy and security issues. In his speech, he stressed the importance of the US-Europe alliance, calling it "the cornerstone of our shared security and prosperity." However, he acknowledged the "growing divide" between the two sides and the need to address areas of disagreement.

  • Rubio delivered his speech on February 14, 2026 at the Munich Security Conference.

The players

Marco Rubio

The US Secretary of State, emphasizing America's desire to maintain close ties with its European allies.

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What they’re saying

“The transatlantic alliance is the cornerstone of our shared security and prosperity. We must not let it crumble.”

— Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State (Munich Security Conference)

The takeaway

Rubio's remarks at the Munich Security Conference suggest the US is seeking to repair strained relations with Europe and preserve the critical transatlantic alliance, despite growing divisions on key issues.