Munich Security Conference Concludes: Can Europe Breathe a Sigh of Relief Regarding the US?
The annual Munich Security Conference came to an end over the weekend.
The Munich Security Conference in Germany concluded on February 15th. This year, the focus once again centered on speeches from China and the United States, as well as Europe's role and policy direction amid the geopolitical rivalry between the two countries. DW journalists were on-site to experience the atmosphere of the talks, interview scholars and officials, and summarize the key highlights of this year's conference.
Can Europe Breathe a Sigh of Relief Regarding the US?
Compared to last year's speech by US Vice President J.D. Vance at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Antonio Rubio appeared significantly more moderate toward Europe this year.
Last year, Vance criticized European countries harshly during his speech, stating that the greatest threat Europe faces is not from Russia or China, but from within, and accused European countries of straying from their own values and ignoring voters' concerns about immigration and freedom of speech.
This year, Rubio emphasized at the Munich Security Conference: "For us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we are always children of Europe." He also pointed out the contributions of Europe to American agriculture, beer and other industries, saying, "The heartland of our great American Midwest was built by German farmers and craftsmen, who transformed the vast plains into a global agricultural power."
Rubio addressed European countries: "We are not seeking separation, but rather reviving this ancient friendship and revitalizing the greatest civilization in human history."
DW's International News Editor Richard Walker analyzed that these words were quite comforting for European countries, because what they are most worried about right now is being abandoned by the US at a critical moment when Russia may be preparing to attack Europe.
At that moment, the host said to Rubio after his speech: "I'm not sure if you heard it, but there was a collective sigh of relief from the entire audience."
However, whether the US has indeed changed its diplomatic strategy toward Europe remains to be seen. Walker pointed out that although Rubio's speech was much friendlier than last year, he repeatedly mentioned that international institutions are failing, implying that only American power can solve major issues. The underlying logic has not changed, and it aligns with former President Trump's usual rhetoric.
This kind of idea of powerful nations intervening in international conflicts contradicts the core values of Europe. Most European democratic blocs believe that problems should be solved through cooperation between nations. However, the US may be trying to convey the idea of "might is right" to Europe.
For these political leaders gathered in Munich, this is a deeply worrying signal. Walker analyzed, "Perhaps it's not really worth taking a deep breath right now."
Source: DW
Original: toutiao.com/article/1857272751698944/
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