US Vice President speaks about EU politics – level 3
18-02-2025 15:00
At the Munich Security Conference, US Vice President JD Vance claimed that free speech is in retreat in Europe and that European voters never chose to ‘open the floodgates’ to migrants.
He also argued that limits on freedom of expression pose a greater threat to democracy than Russian military aggression. His speech, delivered in a firm tone, surprised many European leaders, particularly in Germany. According to DW’s Chief International Editor Richard Walker, Vance’s remarks were payback for European criticism of the MAGA movement. Some saw his words as an endorsement of far-right parties in Europe, as he criticized the practice of excluding them from coalition governments. German leaders, including Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, strongly rejected his comments, calling them unacceptable.
Observers noted that Vance’s speech may deepen tensions between the US and Europe, particularly as it comes just before key elections in Germany. While some people ignored his statements, others think they show growing transatlantic political disagreements.
Difficult words: retreat (moving back or becoming weaker), payback (the act of taking revenge), endorsement (support).
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What potential impact might Vance's comments on restricting free speech and excluding far-right parties have on transatlantic political dynamics, and how did German officials respond?
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