The Munich Security Conference is about to commence, bringing together global leaders, with a record number of participants. This year, the atmosphere is particularly tense as leaders are keen to mend the fraught relationships with the United States, especially after last year's confrontational address by US Vice President JD Vance, which left many European leaders shocked. The question looming over this year's discussions is whether it is possible to restore the damaged ties with the US amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Around 60 heads of state and government, including numerous world ministers and security experts, will gather at the luxurious Bayerischer Hof hotel for the event. Anticipation is high as it was announced that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be delivering the speech this year, which many believe will be more conciliatory compared to Vance's previous reprimanding tone. Participants are hopeful that Rubio's address will foster a more constructive dialogue and prevent a repeat of last year's incidents.

The backdrop of this conference includes tension in European security, with concerns shifting from external threats like Russia and China to internal challenges within Europe itself. This shift in focus reflects a growing awareness among European leaders about the necessary steps for united action, as well as the need to engage the US positively in addressing collective security issues. The outcomes of this year’s discussions could have significant implications for transatlantic relations and global security dynamics moving forward.