Changes in JD Vance's Perspective: Europe vs. Ukraine and Russia
Europe captivated Vance anew, yet his affection waned for Ukraine and Russia. - Vance rekindles affection for Europe, yet holds diminished sentiments towards Ukraine and Russia.
By Lukas Wessling modification* ~3 Min read
Originally published on ntv.
A "blaze", an "unprecedented upheaval" - that's how European newspapers described US Vice President JD Vance's speech at the Munich Security Conference in February. The anticipation was high - but this? Vance took a sledgehammer to the transatlantic bond: He accused Europe of muzzling free speech, shredding democracy, and even championing the AfD. Vice Chancellor Habeck spoke of the "disintegration of Western values coalition".
Now, just a few months later, Vance sits down with the founder of the Munich Security Conference, Wolfgang Ischinger, in Washington. And suddenly, Vance loves Europe once more: Of course, the US and the EU were on the same side, Vance said. That wouldn't change, their cultures were far too intertwined. "But that doesn't mean we can't call each other out when necessary," Vance added. Sometimes, one must ask the tough questions, just to remain friends. The morning's main topics were mainly trade and defense, and the Ukraine war was also on the agenda.
These topics were discussed more amicably than in February, not because Ischinger swept Vance's performance under the rug: After just a few introductory remarks, Ischinger already waved a brochure that was printed specifically for this occasion: Vance's speech and the reactions to it. Something like this has never happened at the security conference, says Ischinger. Vance chuckled.
Ischinger and Vance are exceptionally cordial with each other. The nearly 80-year-old Ischinger recalls his month-long stay in the US state of Ohio in 1995, Vance's hometown. At the time, he was a German diplomat and negotiated the Dayton Agreement, which ended the Bosnian War. Vance was ten years old at the time. Now he puts on his best son-in-law smile and expresses appropriate admiration. Ischinger reciprocates with the insight that US intervention had already brought peace to Europe at the time.
Thirty years later, the Europeans have no place in the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Even the US would rather stay out, Vance hinted: "We're really frustrated," the US vice president stated: "They hate each other so much that the first half hour of a one-hour conversation is spent on their historical grudge."
It's "absurd that both sides aren't talking to each other" Vance asserts. That makes it impossible to mediate. In Vance's view, the Russians are asking for too much; but the Ukraine also has unrealistic expectations. Vance calls for "cool heads" and references economic benefits for both sides that could ease the hatred.
Speaking of the economy: What does Vance expect from the talks on a trade deal with the EU, Ischinger inquired. Fair treatment, he responded. US software companies are being penalized, European ones aren't. The Europeans should protect themselves and also buy US weapons, says Vance.
At this point, Ischinger wants to wrap up the Q&A session, citing the prominent guest's tight schedule. But Vance interrupts, dismisses the concern with a wave: "I'm enjoying myself." His team will likely be growing concerned, he says, grinning and pointing toward the backstage.
Vance's New Perspective is a "Beacon of Hope" in Germany
Ischinger mentions the upcoming NATO summit: What message is Vance expecting from Europe? Five percent of GDP for defense - given European fears, this is a reasonable goal, says Vance. But it's not just about the numbers: Ten, fifteen years ago, Vance recalls, "the Germans were excellent at balancing their industrial strength with their living standards." Now, however, Europe is deindustrializing - just when it becomes clear that a strong industry is needed to support military power economically.
He believes the US is on the right track regarding defense, says Vance: "And I'm grateful that many of our European friends recognize that." Ischinger speaks of a "gleam of hope" - Germany has suspended the debt brake for military spending. Vance nods, squinting.
Finally, Ischinger asks US Vice President Vance to attend the Munich Security Conference again next year. Vance thanks him and says he wasn't sure if he'd be invited back after his appearance in February. "Well, we've given it some thought," says Ischinger. Vance laughs heartily.
Transparency note: Stern is part of RTL Germany, like ntv.
- JD Vance
- Europe
- Ukraine
- Russia
- Wolfgang Ischinger
- USA
- Partnership
- Munich Security Conference
- EU
- Democracy
- Campaign
- AfD
- Washington
Additional Insights:
JD Vance's Current Stance on Ukraine and Russia
Vance has recently highlighted that Russia's initial offer to end the war with Ukraine involves excessive demands. At the Munich Leaders Meeting, he suggested that Russia's requirements, such as preventing Ukraine from joining NATO and redrawing borders, are too stringent. Vance underscored the importance of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine for a "durable peace" that would benefit both parties economically.[1][2] He also expressed concerns about Russia's lack of sincerity in negotiations, stating that if such actions continue, the US could withdraw from the peace talks.[3]
In comparison to his opinion on Europe, Vance also discussed US-European relations with Ambassador Wolfgang Ischinger. Vance encouraged US-European solidarity, positioning them as being "on the same civilizational team." He advocated for reevaluating fundamental questions together, fostering a collaborative approach rather than direct conflict resolution as with Russia and Ukraine.[4] This stance demonstrates a more cooperative and less adversarial tone toward Europe compared to the US's approach to negotiations involving Russia. In essence, while Vance seeks direct, bilateral negotiations between Russia and Ukraine with fair concessions, his approach to European relations focuses on building strategic alliances and mutual understanding.
[1] BBC News[2] Reuters[3] Associated Press[4] Bloomberg
- JD Vance, during his discussion with Wolfgang Ischinger in Washington, advocated for continued US-EU partnership, stating that their cultures are too intertwined for any changes.
- In a remarkable turnaround from his February speech, Vance now shows fondness for Europe, acknowledging the need for honest dialogue between allies to remain friends.
- Vance recently expressed concerns over Russia's excessive demands in ending the war with Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of direct negotiations for mutual economic benefits and a durable peace.
- At the Munich Security Conference, Vance suggested that the Europeans, including Germany, should increase their defense spending by 5% of the GDP, noting it as a reasonable goal given European fears.
