In a bid to reassure European leaders, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the enduring nature of the transatlantic alliance, stating that the US and Europe's destinies are inextricably linked.

Addressing the Munich Security Conference, Rubio expressed his desire to revitalize the historic friendship between the US and Europe, framing it as an opportunity to reaffirm the values that have defined Western civilization.

While Rubio did voice criticisms of European policies on immigration, trade, and climate change, his overall tone was notably more conciliatory than that of Vice-President JD Vance, who had spoken at the same conference the previous year.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed Rubio's remarks, stating that she felt "very much reassured" by his commitment to the transatlantic partnership.

Rubio, the highest-ranking diplomat in the Trump administration, underscored the US's desire to maintain its relationship with Europe, saying that while the US is geographically located in the Western Hemisphere, it remains deeply connected to its European heritage.

He emphasized the US's intention to forge a new path towards prosperity in the 21st century, one that would be undertaken in collaboration with its European allies and friends.

However, Rubio also reiterated several criticisms that the Trump administration has previously leveled against Europe, including concerns about immigration policies and the impact of climate change initiatives on economic growth.

On the topic of trade, Rubio observed that both the US and Europe had made mistakes by adopting an overly rigid approach to free trade, suggesting that a more nuanced approach might be warranted.

Rubio reiterated the US's long-standing call for Europe to increase its defense spending, arguing that stronger, more self-sufficient allies would be better equipped to deter potential adversaries.

In response to Rubio's remarks, Von der Leyen described him as "a good friend and a strong ally," and expressed her relief at his reassuring words.

She went on to emphasize the importance of a strong and resilient Europe, suggesting that this was a key takeaway from Rubio's speech.

In a separate portion of his address, Rubio argued that the international system of cooperation is in need of reform, and criticized the UN for its ineffectiveness in resolving conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine.

Rubio also expressed skepticism about Russia's intentions in Ukraine, stating that the US is unsure whether Russia is genuinely committed to ending the war, but would continue to test their resolve.

Later, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the conference, expressing his doubts about Russian President Vladimir Putin's willingness to withdraw from Ukraine, and characterizing Putin as being driven by a desire for war.

Zelensky has faced pressure from the White House to hold presidential elections, despite the fact that they have been suspended due to the ongoing state of martial law in Ukraine.

When asked about a report suggesting that his administration is planning to hold elections as early as May, Zelensky claimed to have been unaware of the report, and reiterated that elections cannot be held while the country is still at war.

Zelensky emphasized that a minimum of two months of ceasefire and the establishment of adequate security infrastructure would be necessary before Ukraine could safely conduct elections.