President Donald Trump lauded Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his recent performance at an international forum in Munich, praising the way Rubio handled diplomatic and policy questions while cautioning him against outshining Trump himself. Speaking at the Board of Peace meeting, Trump highlighted Rubio’s approach as measured yet effective, noting that the senator’s efforts had drawn attention to the administration’s handling of complex foreign policy matters.
Trump: Marco, you really did yourself proud two days ago in Munich. In fact, so proud I almost terminated his employ because they were saying why can't Trump do this? Marco, don't do any better than you did, please. Because if you do, you are out of here. pic.twitter.com/NQrn538qkL
— Acyn (@Acyn) February 19, 2026
Trump recounted an anecdote about the team surrounding him, singling out Rubio for his skill in navigating sensitive discussions. “Marco, you did yourself proud two days ago in Munich so proud that I almost terminated his employee because they were saying, why can’t Trump do this?” he said, emphasizing the distinction between his own style and Rubio’s diplomatic approach. Trump added with a wry warning: “Marco, don’t do any better than you did, please. If you do, you are out of here.” He described Rubio as a trusted aide who understands the administration’s goals and is capable of delivering results with precision.
SECRETARY RUBIO: I've said this repeatedly. I don't know why it's so hard for some to comprehend it.
— Department of State (@StateDept) February 16, 2026
No one is entitled to a visa.
If you enter our country as a visitor and undertake activities against the national interests of the United States, we will take away your visa. pic.twitter.com/Y9hWlZpKBX
The praise came in the broader context of Rubio’s ongoing role as Secretary of State under President Trump. Rubio has been a key figure in implementing the administration’s foreign policy priorities, particularly in areas involving national security and visa authority. During a recent speech in Budapest, Rubio made clear that visa issuance is a privilege, not a constitutional right, and that foreign nationals who engage in activities contrary to U.S. national interests may have their visas revoked. “A visa is not a right. There is no constitutional right to a visa,” Rubio said, underscoring the discretion afforded to the executive branch in regulating entry into the United States.
Trump tied Rubio’s performance in Munich to these broader policy efforts, highlighting his ability to defend and implement U.S. positions abroad. He framed Rubio’s work as a model for the administration’s team, contrasting it with less prepared responses from other political figures, and expressing confidence in the effectiveness of his Secretary of State. “I want to thank JD and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. They are extraordinary,” Trump said, emphasizing both his personal approval and the strategic importance of Rubio’s diplomatic engagements.
The remarks reflect the ongoing emphasis within the administration on strong executive control over immigration and national security, while also signaling Trump’s careful management of his senior officials. By publicly praising Rubio but also jokingly cautioning him against outperforming the president, Trump underscored the delicate balance between delegation of authority and maintaining political leadership over key foreign policy decisions.
