Athens:US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a warning that the West is vulnerable due to weakened militaries, outsourced industries, and declining confidence as the "great-power competition" resurfaces.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rubio highlighted that Western countries have allowed rivals to gain an upper hand by relinquishing control of crucial industries and outsourcing decision-making to international bodies. Speaking at the Acropolis in Athens, he remarked on the consequences of opening borders and outsourcing industries, which led to the deterioration of military capabilities. This has emboldened adversaries to grow in wealth and power, he noted.

Rubio emphasized that a new wave of competition among great powers is unfolding, with states vying for territory, technology, resources, markets, and energy. He warned that decisions made in the next decade will be pivotal in determining whether the West maintains its global standing or experiences decline.

Under the leadership of President Donald Trump, the United States has prioritized regaining control of essential supply chains, revitalizing its economy, and strengthening its defenses. Rubio underscored ambitions in fields like artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, space exploration, and military technology.

He also called on Europe to revive its defense efforts, highlighting increased defense spending, expanded manufacturing, and the formation of new partnerships, following commitments made in The Hague last year. Rubio expressed confidence that Europe could awaken from its "long slumber" and reignite its historical ambitions.

Praising Greece as a model ally in defense, energy, and migration, Rubio expressed hope that other European nations would emulate its example. Despite existing tensions between Washington and European capitals, he urged both sides to maintain and strengthen their alliance to confront shared threats.

He further pointed to a recent agreement between the US, Denmark, and Greenland as a model for transatlantic cooperation, stating that it would enhance Arctic security and strengthen NATO as a whole. Rubio concluded by emphasizing the need for unity, stating, "We want to win together. We must win together," and stressed that diplomatic efforts must be supported by military strength and credibility.