Speaking with the Parthenon as a backdrop, Rubio presented a forceful rejection of globalist politics, which he blamed for illegal immigration and the outsourcing of manufacturing. He argued that nationalism had become 'a dirty word' and that in too many places, Western countries had taught children 'to be ashamed of the country they would inherit'.
'The word nationalism became a dirty word, so we tore down our monuments. We condemned our own history, and in too many places, we taught our children to be ashamed of the country they would inherit,' Rubio said.
He declared that the US had chosen 'the unapologetic pursuit of national power' under President Trump, including taking back control of critical supply chains, reindustrialising the economy, rebuilding defence, and fighting for dominance in future technologies.
The speech comes as US-Europe relations face numerous strains, including the US war in Iran, disputes over Washington's support for Ukraine, tensions within Nato including Trump's demands for sovereignty over Greenland, and ideological divisions being driven by Vice-President JD Vance.
Rubio addressed the tensions by invoking Abraham Lincoln's first inaugural address on the eve of the civil war, saying: 'Though passions may, at times, have strained the bonds of affection between the United States and Europe, it must not be allowed to break them.' He called for strengthening alliances capable of confronting the threats of the age.
Observers noted that the speech appeared designed for potential campaign ads if Rubio runs for president in 2028.