Rubio Expresses Desire to Maintain Transatlantic Ties Despite Growing Divide

US Secretary of State emphasizes America's wish to preserve the transatlantic alliance amid tensions.

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 tensions and a widening divide 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 policy disagreements and geopolitical shifts. Rubio's comments signal an effort by the US to reaffirm its commitment to the alliance, which has underpinned global stability and prosperity since World War II.

The details

Rubio used his speech at the high-profile security conference to declare the US's wish to maintain close ties with its European partners, even as disagreements have emerged on issues like trade, defense spending, and relations with Russia. He stressed the importance of the NATO alliance and called for renewed cooperation to address shared challenges.

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

The players

Marco Rubio

The US Secretary of State, delivering a speech at the Munich Security Conference emphasizing America's desire to preserve the transatlantic alliance.

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What they’re saying

“We must not allow the growing divide between the US and Europe to undermine the bonds that have served us so well for generations.”

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

What’s next

Rubio is expected to continue diplomatic efforts to mend tensions and reaffirm the US commitment to the transatlantic partnership in the coming months.

The takeaway

Rubio's speech underscores the strategic importance the US places on maintaining strong ties with its European allies, even as policy differences have strained the relationship in recent years. Preserving this alliance remains a key foreign policy priority for the US government.