© EPA-EFE/GIUSEPPE LAMI The underlying message is resolute: either align with Trump's endeavor to transform the globe to Washington’s advantage, or yield.
At this weekend’s Munich Security Conference, functionaries from the Trump government presented a distinctly more amiable — even convivial — demeanor toward their European counterparts. However, the central idea remained unwavering: either follow the American path or stand aside, Politico reports.
The U.S. dispatched more than a half-dozen high-ranking officials to the yearly global gathering, marking an uncommon instance of the Trump government’s proactive participation in multinational bodies, which it had consistently denounced during the past year.
Pentagon policy head Elbridge Colby garnered commendation on the fringes of the Bayerischer Hof hotel for his pacifying comments, urging collaboration between the U.S. and its allies to safeguard European security. Secretary of State Marco Rubio received a standing ovation upon declaring in a Saturday address that the U.S. and Europe “belong together.”
Yet, beyond the pleasantries exchanged in corridors and the cocktails at Trader Vic’s, a well-known hotel bar where delegations helmed by Senator John McCain formerly convened, European representatives voiced their unease. Despite the shifting tone in Washington, the conviction persisted that the Trump government favored a more “white” and right-leaning Europe.
One European official pointed out that the U.S. message is to “join forces, and if not, we will proceed independently.”
“Naturally, we wish to collaborate with the U.S. However, if the U.S. aims to dismantle the established rules-based global framework, then the 'rules-based' aspect holds fundamental significance for us.”
Such alerts appear not to perturb the administration’s contingent, which felt exceptionally self-assured in the aftermath of Trump’s strike on Iran the previous year, the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and recent intentions to acquire Greenland.
Rubio was present at a G7 session on Saturday but opted out of a separate assembly of European partners concerning Ukraine, citing time limitations. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker stated that Washington aimed to “convey a sense of urgency” but “avoid triggering widespread alarm.”
Nevertheless, Rubio’s main address failed to sway numerous Europeans. Over a dozen officials communicated their apprehensions that, notwithstanding discussions of a “shared destiny,” U.S. policy toward Europe had remained unchanged. Certain nations that have committed substantial funds to American weaponry remain doubtful regarding when the promised provisions will be delivered.
One former European official observed that the fundamental message persisted: the U.S. disfavors “feeble allies” and has no intention of upholding the existing order. Should historical bonds traceable to the era of Columbus and limited national objectives be the sole shared elements, this signals an increasing separation between Europe and the U.S.
While segments of Rubio’s discourse garnered favorable reception from the audience, he remained committed to the “culture wars” espoused by the MAGA movement, which some within the administration are similarly promoting in Europe. Finnish Prime Minister Alexander Stubb asserted that Europe does not endorse such concepts. According to him, MAGA epitomizes anti-European sentiment, dismissal of the liberal global order, and rejection of climate challenges.
In private settings, American emissaries were even more blunt. Colby stated at a confidential gathering that the U.S. and Europe possess shared interests, though not necessarily shared values. He suggested the world has transitioned from a “value-driven” paradigm to a “logic of interests.”
The previous year’s conference was marked by uncertainty following Vice President J.D. Vance’s intense critique of Europe. This year, the ambiance appeared more serene. Diplomats even paused between meetings, indulging in cigarettes and chess matches in the hotel’s outdoor areas.
However, the Munich proceedings are unlikely to yield significant repercussions in Washington. Trump’s advisors advocate for him to concentrate more on domestic affairs. Vance’s team has indicated unequivocally that he will not be focusing on a domestic agenda.
Certain European officials emphasize that strategic pronouncements cannot obscure the true trajectory of the U.S. upon Trump’s reinstatement to power. French Deputy Defense Minister Alice Ruffo conveyed that careful examination of the American administration’s documents is vital, as they distinctly delineate its vision.
Despite the moderated tone, Rubio’s voyage to Hungary and Slovakia — EU and NATO members exhibiting a more nationalistic and pro-Russian inclination — constituted an expressive signal.
One MEP commented: “Marco Rubio articulates conciliatory words, yet subsequently journeys to Budapest and Bratislava. What message does that convey?”
Simultaneously, some officials concede that a firm reminder was warranted. In the words of one EU official, the epoch of “unicorns on bicycles under rainbows consuming tofu and almond milk” has concluded. This signifies not appeasement, but a readiness to operate within the actual world, rather than a realm of grandiose pronouncements.