Staff Reports
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has delivered a speech that stood out for its straightforwardness and diplomatic finesse, earning commendation both in the U.S. and across the Atlantic. The message he presented was notably consistent with the one Vice President J.D. Vance shared earlier, which was something of a wake-up call, or as some have called it, “a punch in the mouth.” Rubio skillfully laid out the need for a strong partnership with Europe, stirring up a standing ovation from his audience. Clearly, Rubio has shown he’s got the chops for diplomacy, something that has not gone unnoticed.
In his speech, Rubio emphasized the importance of cultural pride and the defense of our shared civilization. He expressed a desire for allies who are not weighed down by guilt and shame, but rather, those who are proud defenders of their heritage. It’s a refreshing perspective, moving away from the narrative of guilt many in the West have embraced. Rubio’s speech suggests America has no interest in merely managing a slow decline of Western influence but rather seeks vibrant, cooperative partnerships with a reinvigorated Europe.
Rubio also did not shy away from pointing out the mistakes made on both sides of the Atlantic, particularly regarding energy policies and migration challenges. He critiqued the influence of what he called a “climate cult,” which has resulted in energy policies that have caused unnecessary strain on citizens. This critique was paired with a call to address mass migration issues that threaten societal cohesion. Rubio emphasized that these mistakes were not just American lapses but shared oversights that Europe must also address by stepping up and taking a more active role in defending their own territories.
This straightforward call to action has calmed some nerves in Europe, which has long been used to relying on the U.S. for security. Rubio’s message positions Europe as an active participant rather than a dependent ally, a shift many on the continent appear ready to embrace, especially in light of increased security threats like the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It’s a smart move to encourage Europe to get off its collective bum and invest in its defense capabilities.
Amidst this diplomatic hustle, the political landscape looking towards 2028 is heating up. On the American side, potential candidates like Vice President Vance and other political figures are already showing support for Rubio’s approach. Meanwhile, Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Gavin Newsom are making their own headlines overseas. Ocasio-Cortez’s recent geographical faux pas highlights a need for her to brush up on some basic facts if she wants to be taken seriously on the international stage. Meanwhile, Gavin Newsom is still treating climate change as if it were a vote-winning issue, though it’s questionable how many Americans still prioritize it. As the political games continue, figures like Rubio are clearly defining what serious and informed leadership looks like.
