Rubio walked a balancing act during the conference between championing European countries and ensuring continued good relations. On Sunday, he visited Bratislava and met populist Prime Minister Robert Fico.
Rubio's statement that Europe should not become a feudally ruled servant of the United States hinted at the multifaceted diplomatic approach in Washington, D.C.
"We want to be your partner. We want to cooperate with Europe," Rubio said, as he continued on to Hungary after Bratislava to meet with the friendly Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
