Rubio Urges Europe to Embrace Its History and Culture

US Secretary of State calls on allies to defend their nations, citizens, and heritage

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a speech at the Munich Security Conference, encouraging European allies to take pride in and defend their nations, citizens, cultures, and history. Rubio argued that a "demoralization" has eaten away at Europe's national psyche for nearly 40 years, and urged the continent to resist this trend.

Why it matters

Rubio's remarks come amid growing concerns about the erosion of traditional European identity and values, with populist and nationalist movements challenging the status quo across the continent. His call for Europe to embrace its history and cultural heritage is seen as an effort to bolster transatlantic ties and Western unity in the face of global challenges.

The details

In his speech at the Munich Security Conference, Rubio delivered a robust defense of Western civilization, arguing that Europe must not allow its national psyche to be "demoralized" by forces that seek to undermine its history and culture. The Secretary of State encouraged European allies to take pride in their nations, citizens, and heritage, and to resist efforts to diminish their unique identities.

  • Rubio delivered the speech at the Munich Security Conference this past weekend (February 16, 2026).

The players

Marco Rubio

The current US Secretary of State, who previously served as a US Senator from Florida.

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What they’re saying

“We must not allow the demoralization that has eaten away at your national psyche for nearly 40 years to continue. Take pride in your nations, your citizens, your cultures, and your history.”

— Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State (wbt.com)

The takeaway

Rubio's speech reflects a broader effort by the US to shore up support among European allies and defend traditional Western values in the face of rising populism and nationalism. His call for Europe to embrace its heritage is seen as a bid to strengthen transatlantic cooperation on global challenges.