U.S. Reaffirms Commitment to Western Allies, Citing Shared Values
MUNICH, GERMANY – At a recent international security conference in Munich, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a strong message of unity and shared purpose to European allies, emphasizing the enduring importance of the transatlantic bond and the values that unite the West.
Speaking at the 62nd Annual Munich Security Conference, Rubio addressed a gathering of global leaders and security experts, underscoring the deep and lasting ties between the United States and Europe. He asserted that America’s future is inextricably linked to that of Europe, stating that the continent’s fate will always be relevant to the United States.
Rubio framed the discussions on national security as more than just technical exercises or policy debates. He emphasized the fundamental question of what exactly is being defended. “Armies do not fight for abstractions,” he stated. “Armies fight for a people; armies fight for a nation. Armies fight for a way of life. And that is what we are defending: a great civilization that has every reason to be proud of its history, confident of its future, and aims to always be the master of its own economic and political destiny.”
He acknowledged Europe’s profound influence on the United States, recognizing that the “seeds of liberty” that ultimately blossomed into the American nation were first planted on European soil. Rubio articulated the shared heritage that binds the two continents. “For the United States and Europe, we belong together. America was founded 250 years ago, but the roots began here on this continent long before. We are part of one civilization – Western civilization. We are bound to one another by the deepest bonds that nations could share, forged by centuries of shared history, Christian faith, culture, heritage, language, ancestry, and the sacrifices.”
Rubio addressed the sometimes direct and urgent nature of American counsel, stating, “This is why we Americans may sometimes come off as a little direct and urgent in our counsel. This is why [the President] demands seriousness and reciprocity from our friends here in Europe. The reason why, my friends, is because we care deeply. We care deeply about your future and ours.”
The Secretary of State also addressed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, a major point of concern for Western allies. He acknowledged the complexities and uncertainties surrounding the situation, stating, “We don’t know if the Russians are serious about ending the war. They say they are.”
Rubio highlighted the steps the U.S. has taken to pressure Russia, including imposing sanctions on Russian oil and working to persuade other nations to reduce their reliance on Russian energy.
He pointed to recent meetings between military officials from both sides as a sign of potential progress, however slight. The ultimate goal, he explained, is to find a resolution that is acceptable to Ukraine and that Russia will also agree to. “What we can’t answer — but we’re going to continue to test — is whether there is an outcome that Ukraine can live with and that Russia will accept,” Rubio said.
In closing, Secretary Rubio expressed a vision of a strong and united Western alliance, stating, “We want an alliance that boldly races into the future. And the only fear we have is the fear of the shame of not leaving our nations prouder, stronger, and wealthier for our children. An alliance ready to defend our people, to safeguard our interests, and to preserve the freedom of action that allows us to shape our own destiny.” His remarks served as a reassurance to allies, affirming the United States’ ongoing commitment to its partners and to the shared values that form the bedrock of the Western world.
