Washington is ramping up its diplomatic outreach in Eastern Europe as Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarks on a crucial two-day trip starting Sunday. The visit to Slovakia and Hungary underscores the strategic ties these nations share with the Trump administration, both leaders maintaining a deliberate distance from mainstream EU policies while aligning closely with U.S. interests.
The State Department announced the itinerary last week, highlighting discussions on energy cooperation, NATO commitments, and bilateral security concerns. Following his participation in the Munich Security Conference, Rubio will first land in Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, to engage with key government figures on shared regional security priorities.
In Budapest, the Hungarian capital, Rubio plans deeper conversations with top officials to bolster mutual interests. Topics include advancing peace processes amid global conflicts and strengthening the U.S.-Hungary energy partnership. These nations have proven reliable partners, cooperating extensively with the United States on critical issues.
Rubio, who also serves as Trump’s National Security Advisor, previewed the trip to reporters Thursday before heading to Europe. ‘These are countries that are very strong with us, very cooperative with the United States, work very closely with us,’ he said, noting it’s his first visit to both. A highlight in Bratislava will be his meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who recently met President Trump in Florida.
This outreach signals a broader U.S. strategy to solidify alliances in a region wary of EU overreach. As tensions simmer globally, Rubio’s mission aims to reinforce NATO’s eastern flank and energy independence, ensuring these Trump-friendly governments remain steadfast allies in an uncertain world.