WASHINGTON / BRUSSELS — In a candid interview released Monday, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance called on European nations to assert greater independence in their relationship with the United States, urging a shift from what he described as a “security vassal” role to that of a true partner.
Speaking to the British platform UnHerd, Vance expressed deep appreciation for Europe, but warned that long-term dependence on U.S. military protection is not in the continent’s best interest. “I love Europe… I love Europeans,” he said, in what AFP described as rare praise from a U.S. official who often criticizes European policies.
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Vance’s remarks come at a time of fluctuating transatlantic relations, shaped by President Donald Trump’s controversial trade policies, shifting strategies in Ukraine, and even past proposals such as acquiring Greenland from Denmark. “It is not good for Europe to remain a permanent security vassal of the United States,” Vance stated, echoing previous concerns over Europe’s economic and military reliance on the U.S.
He pointed to the Iraq War as a case study, praising countries like France and Germany for their opposition. “Had Europeans been more independent and willing to push back, perhaps the world could have avoided the strategic disaster that was the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq,” said Vance, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the conflict but did not engage in combat.
Addressing concerns over new trade tensions, Vance stated that Trump’s approach aims to foster “positive economic relationships” with Europe. However, he acknowledged that nations like Germany, which rely heavily on exports to the U.S., could face challenges under stricter trade terms.
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“We view Europe as an ally,” Vance concluded. “We just want it to be a partnership in which Europeans are more self-reliant — and that will reflect in our security and trade ties.”
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