US Vice President JD Vance reaffirmed the resilience of transatlantic relations on Wednesday, brushing off rumors that a rift could be fueled between Europe and the United States. Attending a Washington event organized by the Munich Security Conference, Vance highlighted the permanent cultural and strategic ties between the two allies.
“European culture and American culture are very much linked, and they’ll always be linked,” he said. “It’s completely ridiculous to think you’re ever going to be able to drive a firm wedge between the United States and Europe.”
In spite of his strong backing for the alliance, Vance pressed both sides to reassess their traditional security policies. He maintained that the security system based on the last twenty years was no longer adequate to address coming challenges.
“Europe and the United States have become too complacent with the 20 years’ security stance,” he stated, implying that a more aggressive and dynamic approach is needed given changing global circumstances.
Vance’s words coincide with continuing transatlantic security issues, ranging from growing tensions with autocratic nations to bolstering defense coordination among NATO members. His comments are meant to reassure transatlantic solidarity as well as prod strategic renewal.
