Rubio calls for "unapologetic pursuit of national power" in Acropolis speech

Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a major address in Athens at the Pnyx, using the historical setting of the Acropolis to advocate for a resurgence of Western power and national identity. The speech linked the traits of ancient Greece—such as ambition and risk-taking—to modern Western needs, while criticizing what Rubio characterized as a current culture of safety, globalism, and historical shame. During his trip, which includes a three-country tour of Iceland, Greece, and Portugal, Rubio also met with Greek officials to discuss defense, energy, and counterterrorism cooperation amid the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a major address in Athens at the Pnyx, using the historical setting of the Acropolis to advocate for a resurgence of Western power and national identity. The speech linked the traits of ancient Greece—such as ambition and risk-taking—to modern Western needs, while criticizing what Rubio characterized as a current culture of safety, globalism, and historical shame. During his trip, which includes a three-country tour of Iceland, Greece, and Portugal, Rubio also met with Greek officials to discuss defense, energy, and counterterrorism cooperation amid the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.