US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured European allies on the second day of the Munich Security Conference that Washington remains committed to the transatlantic partnership. Speaking to world leaders and security officials, Rubio emphasized that the US seeks to strengthen old alliances and ensure shared prosperity with Europe. He underscored that the United States wants a strong, self-reliant Europe capable of defending itself.
Rubio stressed that the US does not aim to weaken its allies or end the transatlantic era. “For us Americans, our home may be in the western hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe,” he said. While his address focused on reassurance and unity, it did not mention Russia or NATO directly, and offered limited specifics on concrete policy measures.
Read more: Rubio signals shift in US foreign policy
In contrast, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for pragmatic US policy toward Beijing and warned against attempts to separate Taiwan from China. “China does not want conflict; it wants cooperation,” Wang said, urging Washington to adopt a “positive and pragmatic” approach. He cautioned that decoupling from China or severing supply chains could heighten tensions.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron also addressed the conference, warning that Europe’s freedom cannot be taken for granted and advocating for a stronger European geopolitical role. Scholz noted the international rules-based system is under threat, while Macron called for Europe to emerge as a true geopolitical power, including through discussions of a joint nuclear program.
Read more: Rubio meets China’s top diplomat in Munich
The Munich Security Conference gathered global leaders and policymakers to discuss pressing security challenges amid geopolitical tensions. Rubio’s remarks highlighted transatlantic unity, while Wang Yi’s comments underscored China’s push for cooperation, signaling the balancing act shaping international relations in 2026.