The 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) on 13‑15 February 2026 saw U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio deliver a keynote address that temporarily eased tensions after the 2025 Vance incident, yet key disagreements persisted among European leaders.
Key Reactions on the Floor
Green Party leader Franziska Brantner warned that Rubio’s friendlier tone did not signal a shift in U.S. Policy, calling it “another sign that Europe must develop into stronger and more independent.” She stressed the necessitate for Europe to “sit down on its own” and noted Rubio’s criticism of free trade as a “dogmatic danger.”
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul praised Rubio’s speech as a “good start” for dialogue but rejected additional U.S. Demands, stating Europe is already boosting its competitiveness “on its own” and does not need “outside advice.” He affirmed willingness to discuss illegal migration while emphasizing joint challenges such as critical minerals, cyber‑attacks, and threats from Russia, and China.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticised the United States for “questioning the territorial integrity and sovereignty of NATO members” and warned against unilateral actions, urging reforms of international organisations to ensure lasting peace and security.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender, described President Donald Trump as “in retreat” and urged a strong, united European response, saying the EU is “more united than ever since it sees what is at stake.”
Rubio’s Core Messages
Rubio framed the transatlantic partnership as essential, declaring the United States “always a child of Europe” and urging joint effort toward a “fresh century of prosperity.” He warned that deindustrialisation and mass migration pose existential threats to the West, labeling the latter a “danger to the fabric of our societies.” He also attacked post‑Cold‑War policies, calling the belief in an “end of history” a “dangerous illusion” and condemning dogmatic free‑trade, unchecked deindustrialisation, and what he called a “climate cult.”
In a Q&A session, Rubio said progress had been made on the Ukraine conflict, noted Russia’s willingness to negotiate, and announced further talks scheduled for the following Tuesday, alongside intensified sanctions from the U.S. And Europe.
Conference Facts at a Glance
- 62nd Munich Security Conference, 13‑15 February 2026
- Venue: Hotel Bayerischer Hof
- More than 450 senior international participants
- Key attendees: Marco Rubio, Friedrich Merz, Emmanuel Macron, Mark Rutte, Wolodymyr Selenskyj, Keir Starmer
- Approximately 120‑plus sessions and meetings
Potential Next Steps
Analysts suggest the MSC could prompt Europe to accelerate its own defence capabilities and reduce reliance on U.S. Strategic guarantees. The United States may seek to temper its Arctic ambitions—particularly regarding Greenland—if European pressure mounts. Ongoing dialogue on migration, critical minerals and cyber security could lead to joint initiatives, though any concrete policy shift will likely depend on further high‑level talks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of Marco Rubio’s speech at the MSC?
Rubio highlighted the importance of the transatlantic partnership, warned about deindustrialisation and mass migration, criticized post‑Cold‑War free‑trade and climate policies, and urged joint action to address the Ukraine conflict.
How did German political leaders react to Rubio’s remarks?
Green Party chief Franziska Brantner expressed skepticism, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul praised the speech but rejected further U.S. Demands, and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticised U.S. Unilateralism and called for NATO reforms.
What issues concerning Greenland were discussed at the conference?
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described U.S. Pressure on Greenland as “completely unacceptable,” noting that the U.S. Desire to acquire the Arctic island remained unchanged and emphasizing “red lines” protecting Greenland’s sovereignty.
What developments do you think will shape transatlantic relations in the coming months?
