Rubio Seeks to Rebuild Transatlantic Confidence Amid Greenland Row and Policy Differences
At this year’s Munich Security Conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to calm nerves among European partners unsettled by recent tensions between Washington and key NATO allies.
Just weeks earlier, remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump about asserting control over Greenland — a self-governing territory of Denmark — had stirred unease across Europe and raised questions about the future direction of the transatlantic alliance.
The comments, coupled with threats of tariffs on certain European nations, cast a shadow over relations within NATO.
Addressing leaders gathered in Munich, Rubio emphasized that the United States and Europe remain bound by shared history and strategic interests.
He described the relationship as enduring and inseparable, recalling the alliances forged during the two world wars and underscoring the need for continued cooperation.
At the same time, he signaled Washington’s desire to reassess aspects of the long-standing international framework established after World War II.
The controversy over Greenland had escalated last month when the Trump administration floated the possibility of new trade measures against European countries as part of a broader push to secure greater U.S. influence over the Arctic island.
Washington cited the region’s growing geopolitical importance and its relevance to American national security.
Trump’s assertion that the United States would obtain Greenland “one way or the other” prompted swift criticism from leaders in Denmark and Greenland, as well as concern across Europe.
Tensions eased somewhat after Trump ruled out military action and agreed to further discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Denmark, and Greenland regarding updates to a 1951 agreement governing U.S. military access to the territory.
While reassuring allies about America’s commitment to defense cooperation, Rubio also echoed the administration’s conservative priorities.
He aimed at European policies on climate action, immigration, and border management, criticizing what he called excessive environmental activism and warning against large-scale migration flows that he argued could strain social cohesion.
Earlier in the conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged both sides of the Atlantic to restore confidence and strengthen cooperation.
However, he and other European officials made clear that Europe would continue to uphold its own principles, including commitments to climate policy, free trade, and freedom of expression.
Rubio’s remarks reflected a dual message: affirmation of shared strategic bonds alongside candid acknowledgment of policy disagreements.
As geopolitical challenges mount, the balance between unity and divergence may shape the next chapter of transatlantic relations.
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