Washington D.C. – U.S. Vice President JD Vance has voiced concerns that European nations are hindering their own progress, asserting they are “sabotaging” themselves despite the United States desiring a strong and prosperous Europe. Vance made the remarks during a recent interview with Fox News, framing the issue not as a lack of respect from Washington, but as self-inflicted challenges within Europe itself. The comments come amid ongoing discussions about transatlantic relations and diverging priorities between the U.S. And its European allies.
The Vice President emphasized that the U.S. Government wants to see Europe succeed economically and maintain a robust standing on the world stage. However, he suggested that current trajectories are not conducive to that outcome. Vance’s statements echo a sentiment of frustration regarding European policy decisions, particularly concerning defense spending and border security, issues that were reportedly addressed during the Trump administration.
Vance specifically pointed to the need for increased defense expenditure among NATO allies, stating that pressure from the Trump administration yielded progress in this area. He also highlighted the importance of securing borders to manage migration flows, suggesting that European nations have not fully addressed these concerns. “We have made great strides, but frankly, we wish our European allies would do much more,” Vance said, according to reports.
NATO Spending and U.S. Pressure
The call for increased defense spending aligns with longstanding U.S. Pressure on European NATO members to meet the agreed-upon target of spending 2% of their GDP on defense. For years, many European nations have fallen short of this goal, prompting criticism from Washington. In Fox News reporting from February 13, 2026, it was noted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is carrying Vance’s populist message abroad, emphasizing the need for allies to shoulder more of the security burden.
Munich Security Conference Criticism
Vance’s comments follow criticism leveled at Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) following her remarks at the Munich Security Conference. Vance labeled some of Ocasio-Cortez’s statements as “the most uncomfortable 20 seconds of television” he had ever seen, specifically referencing her mistaken assertion that Venezuela is located south of the equator. Fox News reported on February 17, 2026 that President Trump also deemed Ocasio-Cortez’s responses “not a good look” for the country. Vance accused her of simply “mouthing slogans” written by others.
The incident involving Ocasio-Cortez has fueled a broader debate about the preparedness of potential Democratic presidential candidates, including Ocasio-Cortez, to address complex foreign policy challenges.
Vance’s European Trip and Italian Relations
While publicly voicing these concerns, Vice President Vance recently completed a trip to Europe, including a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Milan. Fox Nation reported on February 9, 2026 that the meeting took place during his visit for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. This engagement suggests a continued commitment to diplomatic engagement with European partners, even as Vance expresses frustration with certain policy directions.
In a recent Instagram post, Vice President Vance News highlighted his commitment to European prosperity, stating, “We seek Europe to thrive, and we want…” (the statement was cut off in the post). This suggests a desire for a positive transatlantic relationship despite the criticisms.
Looking Ahead
The dynamic between the U.S. And Europe remains a key area to watch, particularly as the 2028 presidential election cycle heats up. Vance’s candid assessment of European self-sabotage, coupled with his recent diplomatic efforts, signals a complex approach to transatlantic relations. The extent to which European nations respond to U.S. Pressure regarding defense spending and border security will likely shape the future of the alliance. Further developments regarding the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and ongoing geopolitical challenges will also play a role in defining the relationship.
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