The Munich Security Conference recently concluded with a strong pushback from European leaders against U.S. claims of 'civilizational erasure' in Europe, particularly in light of comments made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticized what she termed 'fashionable euro-bashing' by Washington, asserting that many countries still aspire to join the European Union and that Europe must assert its agency in defense matters. She emphasized that the U.S. cannot resolve the war in Ukraine without European involvement, stating, 'What matters more than having a seat at the table is knowing what to ask for when you are sitting there,' as reported by The Guardian. Kallas's remarks reflect a growing sentiment among European leaders for a more independent stance in global affairs, particularly in defense spending, which has seen an increase of nearly 80% in 2025 compared to prewar levels.