Trump Praises Vance’s “Brilliant” Speech Attacking Allies as Emergency EU Summit is Called
The transatlantic divide deepened this week after former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly praised U.S. Vice President JD Vance for what he called a “brilliant” speech that took direct aim at America’s European allies. The speech, delivered at the Munich Security Conference, criticized European nations for what Vance described as a “retreat of free speech” and questioned their commitment to global security. The remarks have sparked diplomatic tensions, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to call an emergency summit of European Union leaders in Paris.
Vance’s Speech: A Bold Rebuke of European Policy
Speaking at the annual conference, JD Vance condemned European policies that he claims are stifling free speech and prioritizing bureaucracy over democratic freedoms. He also questioned Europe’s handling of key global issues, from the Ukraine conflict to economic ties with China.
“There is a growing crisis within our Western allies,” Vance said in his speech. “While we focus on external threats, we ignore the erosion of our fundamental values at home. The European Union has chosen censorship over freedom, and protectionism over cooperation.”
His words were met with a mixed response—some European politicians criticized the speech as inflammatory and divisive, while others acknowledged that it reflected growing frustrations within Washington over Europe’s strategic direction.
Trump’s Endorsement and Transatlantic Tensions
Donald Trump quickly took to social media and campaign rallies to hail Vance’s speech as “brilliant” and “necessary,” arguing that Europe has taken American support for granted for too long.
“JD Vance said what needed to be said—Europe is failing to defend its own interests, and it’s time for America to stop footing the bill,” Trump declared at a rally in South Carolina.
Trump’s endorsement of Vance’s critique signals a growing divide between the U.S. and its European partners, particularly as Trump continues to push for a more isolationist foreign policy.
Emergency EU Summit Called in Response
In response to Vance’s remarks and Trump’s backing, European leaders are moving swiftly to address what they see as a deepening rift with Washington. French President Emmanuel Macron has convened an emergency summit in Paris, bringing together EU leaders to discuss the implications of America’s shifting stance.
A statement from the Élysée Palace emphasized that Europe “must be prepared to defend its own interests independently, ensuring that our unity and strategic autonomy remain intact.”
Key topics on the summit’s agenda include:
- EU Defense Strategy – With uncertainty surrounding U.S. commitments to NATO and European security, leaders will discuss increased defense spending and deeper military cooperation.
- Ukraine War Support – European nations may explore options for sustaining military and financial aid to Ukraine amid concerns that Washington’s support could wane.
- Economic and Trade Relations with the U.S. – The EU may reconsider its approach to trade negotiations as tensions rise over regulatory policies and tariffs.
- Democratic Values and Free Speech – Leaders are likely to counter Vance’s allegations by emphasizing their own commitment to democracy and human rights.
What’s Next?
As Europe grapples with the implications of Vance’s speech and Trump’s continued influence over U.S. foreign policy, the coming months could see significant shifts in transatlantic relations.
If Trump secures a second term in office, European leaders may need to reassess their strategic alliances and consider a future in which the U.S. plays a more limited role in European security. The Paris summit is expected to lay the groundwork for a more self-reliant European Union, one that is less dependent on American leadership.
For now, the world watches as this high-stakes political drama unfolds—one that could reshape the global balance of power for years to come.
