Live: Rubio to address Munich conference as European leaders call for US reset
France 24 Europe
by FRANCE 24February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to speak at the Munich Security Conference amid growing tensions between Europe and the United States. His address comes a day after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz kicked off the annual gathering by calling for a "repair and revive transatlantic trust together." The conference, which brings together global leaders, is taking place at a time when US-European relations are strained, with many European leaders seeking to reduce dependence on the United States for defense while maintaining strong transatlantic ties.
Rubio’s speech will focus on addressing these tensions and reaffirming the importance of the transatlantic partnership. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to emphasize Europe's need for greater autonomy in defense, shifting away from overreliance on the US. Starmer’s remarks are part of a broader discussion at the conference about how Europe can strengthen its own security capabilities while ensuring collaboration with NATO and the US.
The gathering also highlights the challenges European leaders face in balancing their desire for greater independence with the enduring importance of US involvement in transatlantic security. French President Emmanuel Macron has previously called for a "strong Europe" to address these issues, reflecting a sentiment shared by many attendees. The conference serves as a platform to discuss how Europe can reduce its dependence on the US while maintaining effective security partnerships.
The discussions at the Munich Security Conference are crucial for readers interested in global politics and international relations. They underscore the evolving dynamics between Europe and the US, particularly as both regions navigate shifting alliances and security priorities. As leaders like Merz and Starmer push for a reimagined transatlantic partnership, the outcomes of these talks could shape the future of NATO and European defense strategies.
This event is not just about addressing current tensions but also about envisioning a new era of collaboration that ensures mutual security without over-reliance on any single nation. The stakes are high, and the decisions made at this conference could have far-reaching implications for global stability and US-European relations in the years to come.
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Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/14/2026