Vance Reaffirms US-Europe Unity at Security Council

U.S. Vice President JD Vance has moderated his earlier criticisms of Europe, reaffirming that the United States and Europe remain close allies with deeply intertwined cultures and shared values. Speaking at a Munich Security Council event in Washington, Vance described it as 'ridiculous' to suggest a wedge could be driven between the two, despite prior concerns he raised about European policies on free speech, immigration, and defense spending. Vance acknowledged enduring disagreements but emphasized that the transatlantic alliance is based on more than transactional interests. He echoed former President Trump’s call for increased European defense spending, suggesting European countries have 'some catching up to do.' Vance also highlighted ongoing U.S. efforts to broker a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, stressing the importance of direct negotiations. His remarks signal a continued U.S. commitment to European security while pressing for a recalibrated partnership to meet future challenges.