Marco Rubio began his speech by recalling the importance of NATO throughout history. He gave examples of the time after World War II when the United States and Europe cooperated, and how the Berlin Wall was finally brought down.
"A civilization was healed," Rubio said.
The euphoria following this victory led to a belief that trade and a rules-based world order would be enough to create liberal democracies. But this was wrong, according to Rubio, who then went on to address issues such as mass immigration, which he believed had been a mistake.
“Same civilization”
Rubio then continued to talk about the relationship between the United States and Europe.
"The United States was founded 250 years ago. But its roots were on this continent long before that," Rubio said.
"We are part of the same civilization, a Western civilization."
"We care deeply about your future," Rubio said, emphasizing that the United States wants Europe to be strong and that this desire is why President Trump is speaking out.
But the system needs to be reformed, Rubio said. And in that work, the US under Donald Trump wants to be a leader, Rubio said.
The map for the future
"The United States is now drawing the map for a new future. And we want to walk that path together with you, with Europe, our oldest and best friends," Rubio said to applause from the audience.
Rubio also warned the international community that the UN has had no role in resolving ongoing conflicts. After the speech, Rubio said he does not know if Russia is serious about peace talks over the war in Ukraine, NTB reports.
The audience applauded several times during Rubio's speech. At last year's Munich Security Conference, US Vice President JD Vance, who gave a similar speech, shocked the world with his harsh tone towards Europe.
