Amid strained relations between the United States and various European countries during President Donald Trump’s second term, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently visiting Central Europe to engage with leaders who maintain close ties to Trump.
The trip, which began on Sunday, focuses on Slovakia and Hungary, emphasizing result-oriented discussions rather than mere courtesy visits.
“Under President Trump, this administration is going to make not just Slovakia but Central Europe a key component of how we engage the continent and the world,” Rubio stated during a joint press availability with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava.
He stressed that engagements would lead to concrete actions benefiting both sides, highlighting a shift toward deeper U.S. involvement in the region.
Visit to Slovakia
Rubio met with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico.
The discussions centered on energy security, defense cooperation, and NATO commitments.
Energy Cooperation: A key focus was Slovakia’s dependence on Russian oil and gas. The two sides advanced nuclear energy initiatives, building on an intergovernmental agreement signed on February 13, 2026. Plans include a multinational consortium for a new 1,200 MW nuclear power plant by 2040, with potential deals involving Westinghouse expected within the year. Fico raised concerns about the EU’s REPowerEU policy, which will halt Russian gas flows from November 2027, and sought U.S. support for alternatives.
Defense and NATO: Slovakia has increased its defense spending to 2% of GDP, aligning with NATO’s minimum but falling short of Trump’s push for 5%.
Discussions included procuring additional F-16 fighter jets to reach a total of 18, enhancing Slovakia’s airspace sovereignty after donating previous equipment to Ukraine. Rubio reaffirmed U.S. commitment to NATO, rejecting any notions of withdrawal and emphasizing that stronger European capabilities benefit the alliance.
Ukraine and Russia: Both leaders addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Fico offering Slovakia as a mediator due to its proximity and expertise. He criticized EU sanctions as ineffective and advocated for dialogue with Russia.
Rubio described the conflict as costly and without a military solution, noting U.S. efforts to facilitate negotiations.
The visit to Slovakia lasted only a few hours before Rubio departed for Budapest.
Upcoming Visit to Hungary
On February 16, Rubio is scheduled to meet Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, whom Trump has praised as a “strong and powerful man.” Expected topics include energy deals, NATO spending (Hungary also at 2% of GDP), and regional security. Orban’s alignment with Trump on issues like migration and Ukraine, along with his criticisms of the EU, positions this meeting as a bolstering of ties with like-minded leaders.
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