Marco Rubio called on the United States and Europe to “revitalize an old friendship,” urging closer cooperation between long-standing allies as questions persist about the direction of U.S. foreign policy under the administration of Donald Trump.
Rubio said the administration would maintain its firm policy positions on major international issues while using language observers described as more measured toward European partners. He emphasized the importance of the transatlantic relationship, pointing to decades of military, economic and diplomatic cooperation.
Addressing concerns from European leaders about U.S. security commitments, Rubio highlighted the role of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in collective defense. He described NATO as an important alliance and called on European members to continue increasing defense spending, repeating the administration’s view that greater burden sharing is necessary. He did not suggest any withdrawal of support.
Rubio said the United States and Europe face shared challenges, including terrorism, regional instability, cybersecurity risks and economic competition. He also pointed to concerns over Russia’s actions in Eastern Europe and supply chain pressures, saying these issues require coordinated responses and close consultation between Washington and European capitals.
His remarks followed a period of tension between the Trump administration and several European governments over trade, tariffs, climate policy, Iran, China and international institutions. Rubio did not propose major policy changes, instead framing disagreements as part of a broader, enduring alliance.
He described transatlantic trade and investment as a foundation for jobs and economic growth, noting that policy disputes do not erase mutual dependence. Rubio encouraged further dialogue on tariffs, market access and regulatory standards to reduce friction while protecting national interests on both sides.
Using the phrase “revitalize an old friendship,” Rubio characterized the U.S.-Europe partnership as a historic bond that has shaped global events since the mid-20th century. He cited joint efforts in past conflicts and postwar rebuilding, saying present-day challenges demand similar coordination.
Rubio also pointed to ongoing cooperation through regular diplomatic meetings, intelligence sharing and joint military exercises. He added that both sides are exploring expanded collaboration on technology, energy security and infrastructure resilience.
He closed with an appeal to preserve what he called a “community of free nations” across the Atlantic, urging the United States and Europe to update their partnership to address emerging global risks and maintain stability.
