Munich, Germany (CNN)Seeking to assuage European fears about refreshed Washington-Moscow ties, Vice President Mike Pence told leaders Saturday that the United States would hold Russia accountable for its actions even as it works to locate new areas for cooperation.
"Know this: the United States will continue to hold Russia accountable, even as we search for new common group, which as you know, President Trump believes can be found," Pence said during remarks at the Munich Security Conference, the first major foreign policy address of the Trump administration.
Pence's speech, which was closely watched in foreign policy circles for its signals about US strategy moving forward, sought to ease concerns on the continent about President Donald Trump, who has offered brash dismissals of long-established transatlantic institutions but few specifics about his intentions.
He arrived at a moment of uncertainty for the White House national security apparatus, which is without a clear leader since Trump fired Gen. Michael T. Flynn after he misled Pence about his conversations with the Russian ambassador. The incident dismayed the vice president while also raising questions about his stature within the administration.
Pence did not offer any detailed policy proposals during his remarks, expressing in broad terms US commitment to fighting radical Islamic terrorism and to the NATO alliance, which Trump lambasted as "obsolete" during last year's presidential campaign.
"Today, on behalf of President Trump, I bring you this assurance," Pence said. "The United States of America strongly supports NATO and will be unwavering in our commitment to our transatlantic alliance."
He sought to underscore shared histories and conflicts, and said Trump would maintain deep ties to Europe while also significantly increasing military spending in the United States.
"As you keep faith with us, under President Trump we will always keep faith with you," Pence said. "The fates of the United States and Europe are intertwined. Your struggles are our struggles. Your success is our success. And ultimately, we walk into the future together."