Marco Rubio calls for closer cooperation between the US and Iceland for the security of the North Atlantic and the Arctic

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday, during a visit to Iceland, that the United States and the country must continue security cooperation amid intensifying military, economic, and infrastructure threats in the North Atlantic and Arctic region.

Rubio, who was in Reykjavik alongside his Icelandic counterpart, Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, described Iceland as a “central element” for the defense of Europe and the United States. He emphasized the country’s strategic geographic position and its role in monitoring clandestine activities and deterring adversaries.

According to the U.S. official, the United States military uses Iceland’s territory, airspace, and waters to project its power and carry out joint actions. Rubio said Washington is open to discussions on expanding cooperation and considering new joint actions.

The statements come amid concerns about the security of the High North, an area that has become increasingly important for Western defense.