This year’s Munich Security Conference (MSC) was expected to center on two major topics: ending the war in Ukraine without surrendering to Russia and urging Europe to increase its defense spending. However, U.S. Vice President JD Vance surprised delegates by ignoring both subjects in his speech on Friday.

A Controversial Speech

Instead of addressing Ukraine or European defense, Vance launched a sharp critique of Washington’s allies, including Britain. He condemned misinformation, disinformation, and restrictions on free speech. His remarks left the audience silent, as they struggled to grasp his unexpected stance.

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Even an attempt at humor—”if American democracy can survive 10 years of [climate campaigner] Greta Thunberg scolding, you guys can survive a few months of Elon Musk”—failed to get a reaction.

Vance accused European governments of abandoning their core values and ignoring public concerns about migration and free speech. His speech was widely seen as poorly judged and received a negative response.

Speech Aimed at U.S. Audience

A U.S. analyst later remarked that Vance’s speech was intended for American audiences rather than European leaders. His focus on issues unrelated to Ukraine or defense spending fueled speculation about the true purpose of his remarks.

Meeting with Zelensky

Despite the controversial speech, Vance later met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky described their discussion as “a good conversation,” expressing confidence that it was “our first meeting, not last, I’m sure.” He stressed the importance of strengthening ties between Washington and Kyiv to develop a strategy “to stop Putin and finish the war.”

Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s desire for peace but emphasized the need for “real security guarantees.” Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin also wanted peace—though on terms favoring Moscow. If Putin’s demands remain unchanged, they would require Ukraine to surrender territory permanently to Russia.

U.S. Undermines Ukraine’s Position

Vance’s speech came shortly after Trump undermined Ukraine’s negotiating stance. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that restoring Ukraine’s borders to pre-2014 conditions was “not realistic.” This announcement dashed Kyiv’s hopes of reclaiming lost territory and joining NATO. Furthermore, the U.S. ruled out sending troops to defend Ukraine from future Russian aggression.

Trump’s Call with Putin Raises Concerns

Before the conference, Europe was shocked to learn that Trump had a 90-minute phone call with Putin. This conversation abruptly ended the West’s three-year policy of avoiding direct contact with the Russian leader following the 2022 invasion. European leaders worry that Trump’s eagerness for a peace deal may allow Putin to strengthen his position and seize more land in the future.

Key Discussion at MSC

European delegates at the conference remain deeply concerned. A high-profile debate on Saturday will focus on the Ukraine war. Many fear that in Trump’s pursuit of a swift peace deal, Putin could emerge victorious, emboldened, and ready to expand further into Europe.