By Micah Jonah, February 16, 2026
At the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio called on European countries to join the US in building a “new Western century,” framing US-Europe relations as a civilisational partnership. Rubio emphasized that the alliance should focus not only on military cooperation but also on advancing technology, securing critical supply chains, maintaining Western cultural cohesion.
Rubio criticized what he described as “liberalist” policies in Europe, arguing that mass migration and energy policies have destabilized societies and weakened the West. He highlighted the importance of reshoring industries, controlling critical minerals, investing in artificial intelligence and space travel, and cooperating to capture markets in the Global South.
His speech follows a year of rhetoric from the Trump administration warning of “civilizational erasure” in Europe. In previous conferences, Vice President JD Vance also criticized European liberal values, suggesting a need for stronger alignment with US strategic priorities.
Experts, including Trita Parsi of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, said Rubio’s remarks reveal that the US intends to set the terms of partnership, emphasizing Western dominance and expecting Europe to align closely with American priorities.
European leaders responded cautiously. While welcoming stronger transatlantic ties, officials largely avoided commenting on Rubio’s critiques of migration and liberalism. European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen stressed a desire for a strong Europe within the alliance, while French and German ministers highlighted independence and adherence to international rules.
The speech comes as Europe faces growing far-right influence, restrictive immigration policies, and a drive for greater energy and technology sovereignty. Countries including Denmark and the UK have already tightened immigration controls, while far-right parties in the Netherlands, France, and the UK have gained traction with stricter policies and proposals such as remigration.
The challenge for Europe, analysts say, is to balance strategic autonomy with maintaining partnership with the US. Rubio’s call underscores the tension between European independence and alignment with American civilizational and geopolitical objectives.
European leaders, including German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, have signaled willingness to repair and strengthen transatlantic trust, recognizing the growing rift while navigating domestic political pressures and global strategic challenges.
