Marco Rubio Prepares for Munich Security Conference Amid Evolving Geopolitical Landscape

Fri Feb 13 2026 23:52:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As US Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares for his address at the Munich Security Conference, he emphasizes a new era in geopolitics, prompting discussions about the future of transatlantic relationships.

In a significant address at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warns of a 'new era' in geopolitical dynamics. Amid tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine, relations with China, and Europe’s call for greater independence from the US, Rubio aims to redefine the US's role in global security. His speech comes on the heels of controversial prior remarks made at last year's conference, setting the stage for potentially constructive dialogue as 50 world leaders gather to discuss pressing international issues.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken of a defining moment and a 'new era' as he travels to Europe for a major speech to the Munich Security Conference.

Rubio will lead the US delegation at the first major global event since President Donald Trump threatened Danish sovereignty with a pledge to annex Greenland.

French President Emmanuel Macron has insisted Europe must prepare for independence from the US, while Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte has stressed that transatlantic bonds are as close and important as ever.

The war in Ukraine, tensions with China and a potential nuclear deal between Iran and the US are also on the agenda as the security conference gets under way.

'The world is changing very fast right in front of us,' Rubio told reporters. 'We live in a new era in geopolitics, and it's going to require all of us to sort of re-examine what that looks like and what our role is going to be.'

At last year's conference, US Vice-President JD Vance attacked Europe for policies on free speech and immigration, triggering unprecedented transatlantic tensions. Rubio is expected to adopt a more conciliatory tone, telling reporters Europeans 'want to know where we're going' and how the US aims to cooperate with them.

Hours before the conference opening, German officials emphasized the importance of showing that the US needs Europe as the discussions continue to evolve.

This year's event could shape the future of global security and defense alliances amid rising skepticism about US commitments to NATO and longstanding European relations.