US Vice-President JD Vance delivered a controversial speech at the Munich Security Conference, where he criticized European democracies, stating that the most significant threat facing the continent was "from within." Vance's remarks came amidst a gathering that has predominantly focused on Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. His comments centered on concerns over free speech and religious liberties, particularly highlighting issues in Britain and Scotland.
Vance expressed worries about the erosion of basic liberties, particularly affecting "religious Britons." He criticized laws enforcing buffer zones around abortion clinics, alleging that such measures demonstrate a retreat of free speech. As an example, he cited a legal case involving a British army veteran convicted for praying silently outside an abortion clinic, breaching a 150-meter safe zone. Furthermore, Vance accused the Scottish government of discouraging individuals from engaging in private prayer within their own homes.
"Democracy rests on the sacred principle that the voice of the people matters." – JD Vance
The Vice-President's address extended beyond these specific instances, touching on broader cultural issues and themes reminiscent of former President Trump's campaign rhetoric. His critique drew sharp responses from European leaders. Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign policy chief, accused Vance of "trying to pick a fight" with Europe. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius found Vance's questioning of European democracies unacceptable.
"Democracy was called into question by the US vice-president for the whole of Europe." – Boris Pistorius
"And if I have understood him correctly, he is comparing conditions in parts of Europe with those in authoritarian regimes… that is not acceptable." – Boris Pistorius
Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu also weighed in, asserting his nation's commitment to upholding democratic values shared with the USA. Vance referenced Romania's annulled presidential election, which had been compromised by alleged Russian interference.
"All RO [Romanian] authorities are committed to organising free and fair elections by empowering citizens and guaranteeing the freedom to vote." – Marcel Ciolacu
In his speech, Vance did not shy away from addressing Germany's internal political debates. He criticized mainstream political parties for maintaining a "firewall" against cooperating with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, suggesting that such divisions undermine democratic principles.
"There's no room for firewalls. You either uphold the principle or you don't." – JD Vance
"If your democracy can be destroyed with a few $100,000 of digital advertising from a foreign country, then it wasn't very strong to begin with." – JD Vance
On the sidelines of the conference, Vance met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He expressed hope for a "reasonable settlement" in the Ukraine conflict following US President Donald Trump's unexpected declaration that peace talks would commence between the US, Russia, and Ukraine. However, Russia has denied sending a delegation to Munich for these discussions.
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