Michelle Kellerman

And that was where kind of at least people felt there was a place for Europe.

Secretary Rubio did have some harsh words criticizing Europeans for allowing mass migration and what he calls a climate cult.

But he says ties are deep and historic, and the Trump administration wants to work together on security, AI, and critical mineral supply chains.

The organizer of the Munich Security Conference, Wolfgang Ischinger,

says diplomats were breathing a sigh of relief.

He also asked Rubio about Ukraine, saying Russia seems to be playing for time.

Rubio says he's not sure if Russia is ready to agree to a deal that will be acceptable to Ukraine.

Michelle Kellerman, NPR News, Munich.

When Vance was here, he criticized allies for their immigration and free speech policies, warning that they're putting Western civilization at risk.

Secretary Rubio, speaking on the tarmac before flying to Munich, says Europeans want honesty.

The world is changing very fast right in front of us.

Speaking from outside the conference, California Governor Gavin Newsom says Rubio is more of a diplomat than Vance.

Michelle Kellerman, NPR News, Munich.

Last year, Vice President Vance stunned the audience at the Munich Security Conference when he accused America's closest allies of allowing migration to imperil Western civilization.

Secretary Rubio's speech is likely to be less contentious...

though the theme of the conference is what diplomats are calling the period of wrecking ball politics.

Rubio is also traveling to Slovakia and Hungary.

The two European countries lean toward Russia and rely on Russian energy.

The State Department says the Secretary of State will be talking with them about energy partnerships with the United States.

Michelle Kellerman, NPR News, the State Department.