Marco Rubio Calls for Stronger Self-Reliant Allies as Starmer Labels Europe a “Sleeping Giant” at Munich

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday began his address at the Munich Security Conference by highlighting the longstanding partnership between the United States and Europe, describing it as a bond that has helped confront some of the most significant global challenges.

Highlighting Washington’s preference for cooperation, Rubio said, "While we are prepared, if necessary, to do this alone, it is our preference and it is our hope to do this with you, our friends here in Europe."

Emphasising unity, he stated, "We belong together," pointing to the enduring transatlantic relationship that has faced heightened pressures during President Donald Trump’s second term.

Rubio noted that American engagement can at times appear "direct and urgent in our council," while stressing that the Trump administration remains committed to the alliance.

Observers contrasted the tenor of Rubio’s speech with comments delivered at the same forum last year by US Vice President JD Vance, which had drawn attention for their criticism of Europe’s reliance on US support.

Vance’s earlier remarks continued to resonate among attendees as Rubio’s address received intermittent applause.

Why did Rubio stress that allies must defend themselves at the Munich Security Conference?

During the speech, Rubio also underscored the administration’s belief that global institutions shaped by the previous world order must be "reformed" and "rebuilt," reflecting shifts in US foreign policy priorities.

While reaffirming the historic significance of the alliance, Rubio outlined expectations for what he described as recalibrated cooperation, saying, "We want allies who can defend themselves so no adversaries will feel inclined to challenge our collective strength."

The Trump administration has repeatedly called on European partners to assume greater responsibility for regional security.

More than 50 members of Congress and other US dignitaries are in Munich, including prominent Democrats who have sought to outline their own foreign policy visions and a potential alternative path forward for US leadership.

Why did Keir Starmer call Europe a “sleeping giant” at the Munich Security Conference?

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, addressing the same conference, described Europe as a “sleeping giant” and called for NATO’s European members to work together to “great effect” in the face of Russian aggression.

“We must move forward together to create a more European NATO. As I see it, Europe is a sleeping giant,” Starmer said.

“Our economies dwarf Russia’s more than 10 times over. We have huge defense capabilities, yet too often this adds up to less than the sum of its parts,” he said, warning that “fragmented industrial planning and procurement have led to gaps in some areas and massive duplication in others.”

Starmer stressed that while the US remained an indispensable ally, the US national security strategy means that Europe must take primary responsibility for its own defense.

“That is the new normal,” he said. He further argued that Europe must stand ready to build “hard power,” adding, “That is the currency of the age, we must be able to deter aggression, and yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight, to do whatever it takes to protect our people, our values and our way of life.”

(With inputs from ANI)