Rubio to Europe: “We Care Deeply”

Foreign Policy

by FP Staff

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a speech at the Munich Security Conference on February 14, addressing shared Western values and history with European leaders. In contrast to Vice President J.D. Vance’s previous confrontational remarks, Rubio adopted a more conciliatory tone, emphasizing unity in overcoming past challenges like the Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. He warned against the delusion of a “end of history” narrative, which he argued ignored human nature and led to economic deindustrialization,outsourcing of sovereignty, and overreliance on trade. Rubio criticized Europe for embracing policies that weakened its competitiveness, such as energy restrictions that harmed economies while adversaries exploited resources for leverage. Rubio’s speech also touched on contentious issues like the U.S. use of force in Venezuela and Iran, climate change policies he deemed impoverishing, and dismissive remarks about international institutions like the United Nations. While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called his message reassuring, other officials expressed discomfort over these comments. Rubio’s address highlighted divisions within transatlantic relations, underscoring ongoing tensions between U.S. priorities and European approaches to global challenges. Rubio’s speech matters because it reflects broader debates about the future of Western alliances and values in an increasingly uncertain world. His critique of Europe’s policies and emphasis on shared purpose aim to rally support for a stronger transatlantic partnership while addressing real concerns about economic decline, security threats, and international cooperation

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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/14/2026