Marco Rubio tells European allies the US and Europe 'belong together'

At the Munich Security Conference, US Senator Marco Rubio delivered a speech aimed at reassuring European allies. He stated that the United States and Europe 'belong together,' a message seen as softer and more conciliatory than rhetoric from some other US political figures in recent times.

Rubio's remarks were met with a mixed reaction. While some European officials, like the President of Latvia, publicly agreed with his message, others viewed it with skepticism, noting that the 'roses still have thorns,' implying underlying tensions remain. A key part of his speech urged European nations to increase their own defense spending and capabilities.

The speech is seen as an attempt to stabilize the transatlantic relationship ahead of potential political changes in the United States, emphasizing continued cooperation despite disagreements on specific issues.