US Vice President JD Vance was shunned by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz during a visit to Munich, opting instead to meet with AfD party leader Alice Weidel, who is widely regarded as far-right. The meeting occurred nine days before Germany’s election and sparked controversy over democracy in Europe.
Vance lectured European leaders about the state of democracy, warning that “firewalls” between mainstream parties and extremist groups are unacceptable. However, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius rejected Vance’s views, saying he was comparing conditions in parts of Europe with those in authoritarian regimes as “unacceptable”.
Weidel is co-leader and candidate for chancellor of the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany party, which polls suggest will be in second place at the February 23 election. Vance also sparked debate over free speech, stating that it seems to be “in retreat” across Europe.
The incident highlights the tensions between the US and Germany on democracy and extremism. German Chancellor Scholz later rejected Vance’s comments, citing the importance of a “firewall” against extreme right-wing parties.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/02/14/ceasefire-must-hold-un-says-as-gaza-in-midst-of-humanitarian-disaster