During the Munich Security Conference, held on February 14, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for Europe to assume more responsibility and not rely heavily on the United States. This appeal comes at a time when Europe is actively seeking to reduce its dependence on America, while China is attempting to fill the gaps created by these transatlantic tensions by promoting a strong partnership with European nations. Rubio's speech indicates that the cracks generated by the Trump administration's policies are fostering a potential reconfiguration of international relations.

Rubio cited the shared history of the U.S. and Western Europe during World War II and the Cold War, urging a united front to counter forces that threaten to lead to a "disappearance of civilization". He made it clear that the U.S. will not act as a "polite steward" for a declining West, reinforcing the importance of Western unity based on values upheld by the current administration. Additionally, he criticized the United Nations for failing to address urgent challenges and effectively playing a role in global governance, suggesting that the notion of a rules-based international order has proven to be naive in the wake of changing national interests.

In light of previous negative rhetoric from the Trump administration, Rubio's comments were seen as more reassuring by European leaders. However, the message strongly articulated the worldview of the U.S. administration. The term "disappearance of civilization" referenced Rubio's reflection on a national security strategy released in December, which warned that Europe faces a "realistic and serious possibility of disappearing as a civilization." This highlights the competitive nature of U.S.-China relations and the implications for European sovereignty amid increasing geopolitical strife.