JD Vance, in his capacity as Vice President, has articulated a foreign policy stance toward Europe that emphasizes internal cultural and political decay over external security threats. At the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in February 2025, Vance delivered a speech where he stated his biggest security concern for Europe was "the threat from within," not Russia or China.
This internal threat, as described by Vance, centers on what he views as European leaders suppressing free speech, enacting restrictive policies, and failing to halt illegal migration. His remarks, which questioned whether Europe's current values still warranted U.S. defense, openly challenged decades of transatlantic cooperation.
Vance also maintained a skeptical stance on Europe's commitment to its own defense and the high cost of supporting Ukraine even before becoming Vice President. His rhetoric signals a significant ideological shift, causing shock among allied leaders and leading to accusations that he is initiating an "ideological war" against U.S. allies.
Actions Taken
- SpeechDelivered a speech at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) calling the "threat from within" Europe's biggest security concern, listing censorship and immigration as key issues.
- SpeechWarned that the U.S. lacked the manufacturing base to support a prolonged ground war in Europe and questioned Europe's "refusal to spend" during his first appearance at the MSC as a Senator.
Key Quotes
The threat that I worry the most about vis-à-vis Europe, it's not Russia, it's not China, it's not any other external actor. What I worry about is the threat from within, the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values.
If you are afraid of the voices, the opinions and the conscience that guide your very own people … If you're running in fear of your own voters, there is nothing America can do for you, nor for that matter is there anything you can do for the American people.”
Criticism
Condemned Vance's February 2025 remarks at the MSC, viewing them as a declaration of 'ideological war' and a threat to decades-long transatlantic relations.
Criticized Vance's past comments questioning Europe's refusal to spend more on defense.
Described Vance's hostility to alliances as 'deliberate' and 'rooted in the idea that foreign policy should serve a narrow domestic narrative,' making him dangerous.
Comparison
JD Vance's current approach contrasts with previous U.S. foreign policy figures who used the MSC as a platform to reaffirm transatlantic unity.
Sources5
JD Vance stuns Munich conference with blistering attack on Europe's leaders
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.