Vice President JD Vance's Renewed Affection for Europe - A Civil Dialogue on Ukraine and Russia
- by Lukas Wessling
- 3 Min
Europe captivates Vance anew, yet his affection wanes towards Ukraine and Russia. - Vance rekindles fondness for Europe, yet relations with Ukraine and Russia grow strained.
From a fiery "storm" to a warm embrace, that's the transformation US Vice President JD Vance displayed on meeting the founder of the Munich Security Conference, Wolfgang Ischinger, in Washington. While his provocative European tour caused a stir, Vance expressed his positive perception of the transatlantic relationship in a more conciliatory manner. Yet, he did not shy away from asking the tough questions on defense and trade.
Vance's European tour in February drew controversy for his blunt criticism of the continent. At the Munich Security Conference, he accused Europe of undermining democracy, throttling free speech, and even advocated for the German far-right party, the AfD. Though the sensational headlines persist, Vice Chancellor Habeck perceived it as "dissolving the Western values community."
Only a few months have passed since then, but Vance's attitude toward Europe seems to have softened. "The U.S. and the EU are indeed on the same team, and that won't change," Vance stated during the meeting. Yet, he clarified, "We can't forget to criticize each other in order to stay friends."
For Ischinger, raking up Vance's controversial Munich speech was a teachable moment: "This has never happened at the security conference," he emphasized, presenting a brochure compiled for the occasion. Vance chuckled, acknowledging the impromptu lesson.
An Unlikely Bond
Ischinger and Vance traded stories, their camaraderie evident. The diplomat regaled Vance with memories of his stay in Ohio in 1995, then a German negotiator of the Dayton Agreement that ended the Bosnian War. Vance, then ten, had his "son-in-law smile" on, leaving an impression on the seasoned statesman. In return, Ischinger admitted that US intervention in Europe during that period brought peace.
Thirty years later, the dynamics have changed. Europeans are out of the loop when it comes to brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine. Even the US would rather sit out the conflict, hinted Vance: "It's frustrating, honestly. They hate each other so much that their initial hour of conversation revolves around historical grudges."
Vance's conviction remained: "It's absurd they're not speaking to each other." The absence of dialogue, he stressed, complicates the mediation process. Vance expressed hope that "cool heads" would prevail, citing economic benefits for both sides as a motivator to drive past the enmity.
Trade, Defense, and the Future of Europe
The conversation touched on topics beyond the ruptured relationship between Russia and Ukraine. Vance's expectations for negotiations on a potential trade deal with the EU piqued Ischinger's interest. "I want fair treatment," Vance answered. American software firms are allegedly being penalized while their European counterparts remain unscathed. Ischinger suggested that Europe should protect itself by purchasing more American weapons.
With the NATO summit approaching, Ischinger quizzed Vance on the desired signal from Europe. "A five percent investment in defense," Vance replied, considering it a reasonable goal given European anxieties. However, Vance also emphasized a need for balance between industrial strength and living standards - an aspect he believed Europe neglected.
Ischinger rose to invite questions, citing the tight schedule. But Vance requested to continue the conversation, to the relief of his team. "I'm having fun," he grinned, pointing behind the scenes.
A Symbol of Hope
Ischinger brought up Germany's suspension of the debt brake for military spending, hailing it as a "glimmer of hope." Vance nodded approvingly. The Munich Security Conference invited the US Vice President to revisit the conference next year, which Vance graciously accepted, despite initial doubts.
Transparency note: Stern is part of RTL Germany, like ntv.
- JD Vance
- Europe
- Ukraine
- Russia
- Wolfgang Ischinger
- USA
- Partners
- Munich Security Conference
- EU
- Democracy
- Campaign
- AfD
- WashingtonUS Vice President JD Vance's current stance on Ukraine and Russia focuses primarily on ending the ongoing conflict between the two nations. Here are key points regarding his position:
Conflict Resolution
- Russia's Demands: Vance believes that Russia is "asking for too much" in its initial peace offer, including conditions like preventing Ukraine from joining NATO, adjusting borders, and not allowing foreign peacekeepers in Ukraine[1][2].
- Negotiation Process: He emphasizes the need for direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine to achieve a "durable peace" that is economically beneficial for both parties[2].
- US Role: The U.S. is working towards a "long-term settlement" and is willing to mediate talks but will withdraw if Russia does not negotiate in good faith[3].
Trade Deals and EU Relations
The US is seeking fair trade policies from the EU, specifically addressing alleged discrimination against American software companies. Additionally, Vance encourages European nations to bolster their defense spending, reaching the five percent of GDP goal, while also promoting balanced economic growth and industrial strength [2][3]. This stance underscores Vance's broader vision for a strong transatlantic partnership while addressing the complexities of contemporary international relations.
- Europe and the US, despite their differences, maintain their alliance, with Vance stating that they are indeed on the same team.
- Vice President JD Vance emphasizes the importance of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine to achieve a durable peace that benefits both parties economically.
- The U.S. is willing to mediate talks between Russia and Ukraine but may withdraw if Russia fails to negotiate in good faith.
- Vance advocates for fair treatment for American businesses, particularly software firms, in trade negotiations with the EU, and encourages European nations to increase defense spending to reach the five percent of GDP goal, while promoting economic growth and industrial strength.
- Wolfgang Ischinger, founder of the Munich Security Conference, sees the U.S. Vice President's renewed interest in Europe as a symbol of hope for strengthening transatlantic partnerships and resolving complex international conflicts.
