The end of Washington's dictation? Germany reacts to Rubio's speech

2026-02-14 21:00
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2026-02-14 21:00
US Secretary of State Marc Rubio's speech in Munich is a “good start” for constructive talks in the future, said German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. At the same time, he emphasized that Europe had decided to take care of its strength and competitiveness on its own and did not need further advice.


Europe has of its own free will decided to take action to increase its competitiveness and strength, “we do not need further impulses from outside for this,” said the head of German diplomacy in a conversation with journalists on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC).
As he emphasized, the German government is also dealing with the issue of illegal immigration, but is open to talks with the US on this topic. – However, we do not need further advice at this time – he added.
Wadephul recalled that there are many common challenges – from access to critical minerals, through cyberattacks, China, to the threat from Russia – and they need to be faced together.
– If the spirit of cooperation prevails in the future, I am sure that we will return to the former unity – he noted.
In a speech he delivered at the MSC on Saturday, Rubio said the US did not want division, but a revitalization of the transatlantic alliance. Calling the US “Europe's child” and European countries friends, he assured that the United States wants “Europe to be strong and to survive.”
He also announced that the US will continue to do everything to end Russia's war against Ukraine, but they do not know whether the Kremlin seriously wants it. (PAP)
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