US Secretary of State Marco Rubio attracted the attention of European leaders at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, February 14. Although his speech did not allay all the concerns of the audience, it was received as a reassuring signal: although relations between the United States and Europe have noticeably cooled down under Donald Trump, they are not in danger of being completely severed.
Rubio was not the only American politician who tried to adopt a more conciliatory tone in relations with the European Union in Munich. Many US representatives emphasized the importance of the transatlantic partnership.
said Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire.
Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Washington, December 18, 2025EPA/WILL OLIVER / PAP
In turn, Republican Senator Thom Tillis emphasized that “The US and Europe are not in a civil war with each other” and appealed to the allies not to be influenced by the harsh rhetoric of American domestic policy.
Democrats are trying to convince Europe that America is more than Donald Trump's political agenda – but in Brussels it is increasingly heard that patience has its limits.
In recent years, transatlantic relations have come under significant pressure and are going through one of the most difficult periods in decades. The source of tensions were primarily controversial decisions made by the Donald Trump administration, which were perceived in Europe as unilateral and confrontational. Particularly emotional was the imposition of high tariffs on goods imported from many countries – including European Union countries – which have been close trading partners of the United States for years.
As a result, a spiral of trade tensions began, which strained mutual trust and undermined the foundations of economic cooperation built over decades. For many European leaders, it was a signal that Washington was moving away from the traditional policy based on partnership and common free trade principles, focusing on a tough game of interests and the “America First” policy. [“Ameryka przede wszystkim”].
One of the most surprising examples of a turn in American foreign policy were Trump's declarations regarding his desire to purchase Greenland. The president repeated them on Friday, just before flying to Florida – causing another wave of astonishment in Europe.
“Donald Trump is a temporary phenomenon”
The Democrats present in Munich paid attention not only to international affairs, but also to the situation in the country.
Sen. Mark Warner warned against the president's plans, which he says would “nationalize” the electoral system and introduce strict ID requirements for voting through executive orders.
“I never thought I'd have to say those words in the America of 2026,” Warner said, expressing concerns about the freedom and fairness of November's general election.
However, California Governor Gavin Newsom – mentioned as a potential Democratic candidate in the 2028 presidential elections – tried to tone down the mood:
If there's one thing I want to make clear today, it's this: Donald Trump is a passing phenomenon. In three years he will no longer be in power.
California Governor Gavin Newsom delivering his State of the Union address on January 8, 2026.San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers/Contributor/Getty Images
Senators Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin, who recently faced a failed impeachment attempt by the Justice Department, also emphasized that the United States was going through a “deep and difficult moment.”
– It's serious, but we can handle it. We will survive this period. Persevere! Slotkin said.
Europe is fed up with criticism from Washington
On Sunday, February 15, the head of EU diplomacy, Kaja Kallas, firmly rejected the statements of American politicians, which – in her opinion – unfairly denigrate the European Union. At the same time, she welcomed Secretary of State Marco Rubio's softer tone.
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— Contrary to what some people try to suggest, Europe is neither decadent, nor 'woke', nor at risk of civilizational collapse – she emphasized, referring to the critical statements of Donald Trump, who has repeatedly warned that both Europe and the United States are threatened by the effects of mass immigration.
French Minister for Europe Benjamin Haddad appealed to European partners instead of reacting to American speeches they focused on strengthening the Union itself.
Let's focus on what we have real influence on – rebuilding our defense capabilities, continuing support for Ukraine, and the threat Russia poses to our democracies
– he argued.
A similar position was presented by the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb. He noted that when American politicians talk about the alleged slow decline of Europe, they often ignore the fact that Europeans today live – according to many indicators – safer and are more satisfied with life than US citizens.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
