Europeans push back at U.S. over claim they face 'civilisational erasure'

At the Munich Security Conference, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas responded strongly to comments made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the potential 'civilisational erasure' faced by Europe. Kallas emphasized that while the U.S. provides vital support to Europe, the continent is not in a state of decline and should not be viewed as vulnerable. This exchange highlights ongoing tensions between European leaders and U.S. officials, particularly concerning perceptions of security and cultural identity. The backdrop of this discussion includes rising geopolitical tensions and the need for a united front against external threats. Kallas's remarks signal a call for European resilience and a reaffirmation of the continent's cultural significance on the global stage, countering narratives that suggest a loss of influence. This incident underscores the importance of transatlantic relations while also illustrating the need for Europe to assert its identity and agency in international affairs.