Rubio Calls for Defense of Western Civilization, Citing Ancient Greece

Speaking at the Pnyx hill in Athens, Greece, Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a defense of Western civilization, drawing parallels to ancient Greek ideals and urging a renewed sense of national pride and vigilance. Rubio invoked the history of Athens, particularly the defense of the Acropolis, as a metaphor for the spirit required to confront contemporary challenges.

He argued that Western civilization, originating in Greece, provided foundational elements such as democracy, philosophy, law, and a spirit of innovation and exploration. Rubio contended that while ancient Greeks possessed qualities like individuality, ambition, and a relentless curiosity, modern Western societies have become ashamed of their achievements, leading to a decline in confidence and a rise in global assertiveness from adversaries.

"Today, too much of the West has forgotten this quality," Rubio stated. "Over time, we in the West came to feel ashamed of the very things that made us exceptional. We felt embarrassed that our achievements set us apart from the rest of the world."

Rubio criticized a perceived trend of prioritizing the global community over one's own nation, suggesting this approach has weakened Western influence. He pointed to the United States under President Trump as an example of a nation that has "chosen the unapologetic pursuit of national power," including efforts to re-industrialize the economy, rebuild defense capabilities, and lead in future technologies.

He advocated for a return to national interest and loyalty, asserting that "there was nothing selfish or wrong about loyalty to your nation, nor anything selfish or wrong about fighting to defend its interests above all else." This sentiment, he suggested, was characteristic of the ancient Greeks' pursuit of glory through striving and achievement for something larger than themselves.

Rubio characterized the current era as an "inflection point" for Western civilization, warning that decisions made in the coming decade will shape the next century. He highlighted emerging threats, including great power competition, vulnerability, aggression, terrorism, and the need to rebuild alliances and institutions to counter these challenges.

"We must rebuild our institutions and our alliances to face these threats together, understanding that the purpose of these things is not to abolish the sovereignty of the nations that constitute them; it is to defend them," Rubio explained. He cited defense, energy, and technology partnerships with Greece as a model for securing borders against threats like mass migration.

Recalling the historical ties between the U.S. and Greece, Rubio referenced statesman Daniel Webster's address to Congress in support of Greek independence. He concluded by emphasizing the need for Western nations to relearn the lessons of history and their foundational values to defend their civilization.