At the Munich Security Conference, U.S. Vice President JD Vance delivered a confrontational speech accusing European leaders of censoring free speech and failing to control immigration. He argued that Europe’s internal challenges, such as democratic infringements and uncontrolled migration, pose greater threats than external adversaries like Russia or China. Vance highlighted incidents like Romania’s election cancellation and the prosecution of an anti-abortion protester in the UK as examples of these internal issues.
European officials responded strongly to Vance’s remarks. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and EU diplomat Kaja Kallas rejected his criticism, with Kallas stating that listening to Vance’s speech felt as though the United States was “trying to pick a fight” with Europe.
Vance’s address underscored the divergent worldviews between President Donald Trump’s administration and European leaders, particularly regarding issues of free speech, immigration, and security. The speech has intensified concerns about the future of transatlantic relations and the U.S. commitment to European security.
