MUNICH — As European leaders grapple with a new and challenging stance from Washington regarding topics such as democracy and Ukraine’s trajectory, they have prepared to voice their perspectives during the Munich Security Conference. This gathering comes amid an ongoing shift caused by the Trump administration, which is redefining long-established trans-Atlantic norms that have endured since the conclusion of World War II.
On the second day of the conference, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were scheduled to address attendees. This follows comments made the previous day by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who appeared to admonish U.S. allies in Europe for their approach to democracy and raised concerns about the U.S. dedication to supporting Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression.
Recent developments included a phone conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where they discussed the possibility of an upcoming meeting aimed at seeking peace. Trump reassured Zelenskyy that he would also be included in these discussions. This ongoing conflict stemmed from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine three years prior.
In statements made last Friday, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine seeks security guarantees before initiating any negotiations with Russia. He expressed his willingness to meet directly with Putin only after an agreement is reached with Trump. Following a 40-minute discussion with Zelenskyy, Vance relayed that the Trump administration seeks a resolution to the conflict.
Before meeting with Zelenskyy, Vance delivered pointed remarks to European officials, touching on issues like free expression and illegal immigration. He cautioned that failure to adapt could lead to a decline in public backing within their nations.
“The primary concern I have regarding Europe isn’t external threats from Russia or China,” Vance stated during his address, which received a muted reaction. “What I fear most is the internal threat — a move away from Europe’s core values, which are shared with the United States.”
On the sidelines of the conference, Vance also connected with Alice Weidel, the co-leader of the far-right, anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany party, just days before an important election in Germany. Mainstream political parties in Germany have oftentimes refused to collaborate with this party, adhering to a long-standing policy of distancing themselves from far-right movements in light of the country’s historical context.
Afterward, Vance departed for Washington, while other prominent figures, including NATO chief Mark Rutte and foreign ministers from various nations such as Canada, France, Germany, and Saudi Arabia, were set to take the stage in Munich.
