Rubio says Europe and the US 'belong together': What does he mean? | DW News

Key Concepts

• Transatlantic Alliance: The political, economic, and military relationship between North America (primarily the US) and Europe.
• Liberal Internationalism: A foreign policy doctrine advocating for international cooperation, democracy promotion, and interventionism to spread Western values.
• Civilization: Used by Rubio as a framing concept for Western identity and shared values, potentially in contrast to China.
• Nation-State Focus: Emphasis on national interests, sovereignty, and prioritizing domestic concerns over global initiatives.
• "Sane Foreign Policy": A rejection of post-Cold War interventionism and a return to prioritizing national interests, as defined by the current US administration.
• MAGA (Make America Great Again): The slogan and associated ideology of Donald Trump, emphasizing nationalism and prioritizing American interests.

Revitalizing the Transatlantic Alliance: Rubio’s Call for Reform at the Munich Security Conference

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed leaders at the Munich Security Conference, advocating for a revitalized transatlantic alliance. He asserted that the US and Europe “belong together,” but emphasized the need for significant changes to the existing relationship. Rubio explicitly stated the US does not desire separation from Europe, but seeks a partnership focused on shared strength and future-oriented action. He framed this desired alliance as one “not paralyzed into inaction by fear – fear of climate change, fear of war, fear of technology,” but rather one “boldly racing into the future” with the primary concern being “the fear of the shame of not leaving our nations prouder, stronger, and wealthier for our children.”

Rubio’s vision contrasts sharply with the previous year’s address by Vice President JD Vance, which was characterized by criticism of European policies on migration and free speech. While Rubio adopted a more conciliatory tone, he still stressed the necessity for fundamental shifts, advocating for an alliance that doesn’t function as a “global welfare state” or seek to “atone for the purported sins of past generations.” He further argued against outsourcing power, allowing constraints on national action, or seeking permission before acting, emphasizing the importance of Western nations shaping their own destinies. A core tenet of his speech was the assertion that the West possesses a “unique and distinctive and irreplaceable” inheritance, forming the “very foundation of the transatlantic bond.”

Analysis by Richard Walker: Echoes of Trump and a Challenge to European Values

Richard Walker, Chief International Editor, provided analysis following Rubio’s speech, noting a palpable “sense of relief” among attendees compared to the confrontational tone of JD Vance’s previous address. However, Walker cautioned that a closer examination revealed significant alignment with the “Trumpian view of nation,” particularly through the repeated use of the term “civilization” – appearing 12 times in Rubio’s speech.

Walker highlighted the potential for this framing to be a deliberate attempt to construct a “Trumpian narrative” of Western identity, drawing parallels to the “America First” (MAGA) ideology. He questioned how this concept of “civilization” could be transposed onto an international alliance like NATO, particularly given China’s own self-identification as a civilization, suggesting a potential framing of a deepening Cold War dynamic. Furthermore, Walker noted the continuity with Vance’s previous criticisms, including opposition to immigration and what Rubio termed a “climate cult.”

Defining a "Sane Foreign Policy" and Potential Points of Contention

Rubio’s call for acting together with Europe to restore a “sane foreign policy” was further explored. Walker explained that the current US administration, influenced by figures like Elbridge Colby (Deputy Secretary of War), views the post-Cold War era as characterized by “liberal internationalism” – a period of attempting to spread democracy and Western values through interventionism. This approach, exemplified by interventions in the Balkans, Iraq, and Libya, is now considered a failure.

This rejection of interventionism is a point of potential agreement with Europe, as there is limited appetite for further military engagements in the Middle East. However, a significant divergence exists regarding climate change. While the US administration appears to be distancing itself from international cooperation on climate action, the European Union remains committed to it. Walker pointed out that the Chinese Foreign Minister explicitly positioned China as a more responsible global leader on climate change, potentially appealing to European sensibilities and creating a strategic opportunity.

The Legacy of Liberal Internationalism and Shifting Global Dynamics

The discussion underscored a broader shift away from the principles of “liberal internationalism” that dominated Western foreign policy in the post-Cold War era. The emphasis on national interests, sovereignty, and a more transactional approach to international relations represents a significant departure from previous norms. This shift presents challenges for the European Union, whose foundational principles are rooted in moving beyond national boundaries and embracing multilateral cooperation. The framing of the West as a unique “civilization” by Rubio, while potentially appealing to some, clashes with the EU’s emphasis on inclusivity and shared values beyond national identity.

In conclusion, Rubio’s speech at the Munich Security Conference signaled a desire for a revitalized transatlantic alliance, but one predicated on a redefinition of Western identity and a prioritization of national interests. While offering a more conciliatory tone than previous US representatives, his message contained elements that challenge core European values and potentially foreshadow a more competitive global landscape, particularly in relation to China. The success of this envisioned alliance hinges on navigating these complex dynamics and finding common ground beyond diverging perspectives on issues like climate change and the role of international cooperation.