ROME, Italy May 8, 2026 — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a clear message on U.S. foreign policy priorities Friday, stating that even as the world’s most powerful nation, America cannot stretch its resources indefinitely and must focus deployments and aid strictly on what advances American national interests.
“While we may be the most powerful country in the world, our resources are not unlimited,” Rubio said during a press availability with reporters in Italy. “We must assign resources around the world, including military resources, on the basis of what serves OUR national interest.”
The remarks came as Rubio wrapped up two days of high-level meetings with Italian officials and Vatican leaders. He noted that U.S. troop deployments and base alignments worldwide are “constantly shifting and changing” in response to global events.
For example, Rubio pointed to the increased U.S. presence in NATO following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He added that some base realignments had already been previewed before recent developments and stressed that such decisions ultimately rest with the President, particularly in light of actions by certain NATO allies.
The statement underscores a pragmatic, interest-driven approach to American diplomacy under the current administration—signaling a potential recalibration of overseas commitments amid finite budgets and competing global demands.
Rubio’s Italy visit included discussions with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and a meeting with Pope Leo at the Vatican, with further talks scheduled with Italian officials on Friday.
The full video of Rubio’s comments was posted by the State Department on X (formerly Twitter), drawing immediate reactions from supporters who praised the focus on America-first priorities and critics who questioned the implications for long-standing alliances.
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