Monaco – In a speech delivered in Monaco on February 14, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to redefine transatlantic relations, signaling a departure from some of the more isolationist rhetoric of the previous administration while emphasizing the enduring ties between the United States and Europe. The address, punctuated by a standing ovation, was widely interpreted as an attempt to mend fences and chart a course for renewed cooperation, though European reaction remained cautiously optimistic.
Rubio’s remarks reach after a period of strain in U.S.-European relations, particularly following statements made in 2025 by JD Vance, then a prominent voice within the administration, which were perceived by many in Europe as dismissive of the continent’s importance. According to reports, Vance’s comments created a sense of fracture, prompting Rubio to articulate a vision of a shared future and a recognition of America’s historical and cultural connection to Europe, stating the U.S. Would always be “a daughter of Europe.”
A Call for Shared Responsibility and a Reassessment of Past Policies
Rubio argued that the West has operated under a flawed premise since the fall of the Berlin Wall – the notion of the “conclude of history.” He asserted that this belief led to a series of missteps over the past three decades, including what he characterized as an “uncontrolled wave of mass migration” that threatens Western societies and cultures. He also criticized what he termed a “climate sect” and the deindustrialization of Western economies, while other nations built up their military capabilities and leveraged supply chains for strategic advantage. “We have made these mistakes together,” Rubio stated, suggesting a collective responsibility for addressing current challenges. He indicated that the U.S., under the current administration, aims to correct these perceived errors, with or without European cooperation, but expressed a preference for a collaborative approach.
The Secretary of State emphasized a shared Western civilization, rooted in common history, religion, language, and ancestry. He invoked a lineage of Western thinkers and artists, including Dante, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, alongside Shakespeare, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones, highlighting the cultural foundations of the transatlantic alliance. He also referenced historical figures like Christopher Columbus, acknowledging the complexities of colonization. Rubio urged Europe to embrace its history and move beyond what he described as a “sense of guilt.”
European Response: Cautious Optimism and a Push for Independence
Reactions to Rubio’s speech were mixed. Some observers noted a deliberate attempt to present a more conciliatory tone than Vance’s previous statements, with Gabrielis Landsbergis, a former Latvian Foreign Minister, suggesting Rubio had brought “fresh paint” to cover a crack in the wall. Others, like Gideon Rachman, noted Rubio’s implicit critique of the end of “Western imperialism.” Gilles Gressani characterized the message as a request for “happy vassalage.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in a subsequent statement, reaffirmed the alliance with the United States but underscored the necessitate for European “independence,” defining it as the capacity to defend its “territory, economy, democracy, and way of life.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed this sentiment, comparing Europe to a “sleeping giant” that requires “greater autonomy” in defense, not as a replacement for U.S. Involvement, but as a means of sharing the burden and strengthening transatlantic ties.
Rubio’s speech also referenced former U.S. Presidents Reagan and Bush, drawing parallels to the post-World War II era when Europe faced similar challenges. He argued that decline is not inevitable and that Europe has the capacity for renewal, but stressed that defending “civilization” is the paramount concern.
The Secretary of State’s repeated mentions of former President Trump – four times during the address – were noted by observers, suggesting a potential positioning for a future presidential run and an attempt to bridge the gap between traditional Republicans and the newer, more populist wing of the party.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the future of U.S.-European relations remains a critical factor in global stability. The coming months will likely reveal whether Rubio’s call for unity and shared responsibility will translate into concrete policy changes and a renewed commitment to transatlantic cooperation.
What steps will the European Union capture to bolster its defense capabilities and economic independence in response to the evolving security environment? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
