Staff Reports
In a dramatic display of political theater, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently made their rounds in Europe, reminding the continent that it might be a good idea to stop resting on America’s laurels and start taking some responsibility for its own defense. It seems that the Trump doctrine, dubbed America First, is still very much alive and kicking, despite the handwringing from liberal leaders across the Atlantic.
At the Munich Security Conference, Vance delivered a speech that struck a nerve with Europe’s elite. He highlighted Germany’s troubling stance on free speech, which is increasingly managed by the government. In true leftist fashion, German leaders responded to the awkward truth with clutching pearls and wails of outrage. It appears that the left’s delicate sensibilities can’t handle a little constructive criticism from an American VP. Who knew that advocating for freedom could provoke such discomfort?
Leftwing German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius goes after JD Vance for blasting the EU in his speech:
"This is NOT acceptable!"
The clapping seals in Europe are upset that an American Vice President just shoved the uncomfortable truth right in their faces. Do better, Europe. pic.twitter.com/I4i7XprrOM
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 14, 2025
Stepping up to defend this fragile ego was German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who criticized Vance’s remarks as “unacceptable.” This response is nothing short of comedy gold. The European leadership seems to forget that the U.S. won’t be rolling in with tanks and troops indefinitely. Maybe if they spent less time worrying about being offended and more time addressing their own shortcomings, they wouldn’t be grilled in an international venue.
While some leaders reacted with disdain, there were voices from the other side of the pond resonating with the message of accountability. Former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin leaned into the truth, explaining that it’s time for Europe to strengthen its own defense capabilities while America takes the charge against threats like Russia. Marin posed a valid question: why should American taxpayers bear the brunt of European security when it’s high time the Europeans put their money where their mouth is?
The back-and-forth over responsibilities in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war continues, but one thing is clear: Vance’s excursion may have rattled the cages of the European elite, but it also opened the door for a frank discussion about accountability and self-defense. Whether the snippy European press likes it or not, it appears the Trump philosophy of self-reliance and authenticity is shaking up the status quo across the pond. It’s high time for Europe to get off the couch and start playing its part in the world stage instead of casting stones from comfortable armchairs.
