F. Merza recently expressed his views regarding the applause received by M. Rubio during the Munich Security Conference. Merza, who admitted he wasn't present at the event, reflected on how he would have found it challenging to stand up in response to the speech, although he acknowledged that the audience's reaction was largely positive. He compared Rubio's speech to that of former U.S. Vice President J. D. Vance from the previous year, noting that while Rubio's remarks were not overtly hostile, they still echoed the sentiments of Donald Trump in a more amicable manner.

Merza highlighted that the audience's reaction stemmed from a sense of satisfaction among Europeans as Rubio addressed them in a friendly tone, which contrasted with previous American rhetoric that was more critical. This shift in tone seemed to resonate with those present. Despite personally feeling that such an address would not have been sufficient to elicit a strong response from him, he recognized that the sentiment of the audience was enough to warrant applause, indicating a desire for improved transatlantic relations.

During the conference, Rubio advocated for the revitalization of transatlantic partnerships but made it clear that any collaboration would be contingent upon the conditions set by the Trump administration. This highlights the complex dynamics at play in international relations, where the nuances of presentation and the perceived friendliness of a nation's representatives can significantly affect diplomatic interactions and public opinion within Europe, especially in the context of past criticisms from U.S. officials.