EU’s Kallas Rejects Claim of Europe Facing “Civilizational Erasure,” Pushes Back at Trump Administration Criticism

A senior European Union official has dismissed the idea that Europe is on the brink of “civilizational erasure,” directly countering language used in the Trump administration’s national security strategy. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Sunday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas defended Europe’s values and global appeal.

Her remarks followed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s address, which struck a more measured tone than last year’s sharp criticism from Vice President JD Vance, yet still emphasized Washington’s intent to reshape trans‑Atlantic priorities.

Kallas referenced the US national security strategy released in December, which claimed Europe faces economic stagnation and the “prospect of civilizational erasure” due to immigration policies, declining birth rates, limits on free speech, and a loss of national identity. She rejected the assessment outright.

“Contrary to what some may say, woke, decadent Europe is not facing civilizational erasure,” she said. She added that people around the world still want to join the EU, noting that during a visit to Canada she was told many there expressed interest in joining the bloc.

Kallas criticized what she described as “European‑bashing,” arguing that Europe’s commitment to human rights and democratic values continues to drive prosperity. “We are pushing humanity forward,” she said.

Rubio, meanwhile, reassured allies that the United States does not seek an end to the trans‑Atlantic era. “Our home may be in the Western hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe,” he said, while reaffirming firm US positions on migration, trade and climate.

European leaders also defended their values. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Europe must protect its “vibrant, free and diverse societies,” arguing that peaceful coexistence among different communities is a source of strength.

Kallas welcomed Rubio’s message about enduring ties between the US and Europe, while acknowledging differences. “It is clear that we don’t see eye to eye on all issues,” she said. “But I think we can work from there.”