At the ongoing Munich Security Conference, U.S. Vice President James David Vance is expected to announce a significant withdrawal of American troops from Europe, according to Christoph Heusgen, the conference’s head.
Heusgen indicated that the U.S. is seeking greater contributions from European nations to enhance defense capabilities.
Ahead of the conference, Friedrich Merz, the CDU’s candidate for chancellor, also expressed expectations that Vance would make a “strong statement” aimed at Germany and other European countries. Merz noted, “This conference will be remembered for a long time.”
Vance himself confirmed that he intends to address the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with a focus on the possibility of a negotiated settlement. He also highlighted the U.S.’s commitment to ensuring that NATO is prepared for future security challenges.
Prior to the conference, Vance held meetings with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. Baerbock emphasized the heightened importance of the conference, describing it as “more important than ever” due to Europe’s “existential choice” on security matters, especially in light of anticipated U.S. presidential talks with Russia.
