**US Vice President Sparks Controversy at Munich Conference**
This year’s Munich Security Conference was supposed to focus on ending the war in Ukraine and boosting European defense spending. Instead, US Vice President JD Vance gave a surprising speech that shocked delegates.
Vance attacked Washington’s allies, including Britain, for spreading misinformation and ignoring voter concerns about migration and free speech. The room fell silent as he spoke, with even a joke failing to raise a laugh. His speech was widely criticized as poorly judged.
But who was the speech aimed at? A US commentator said it was likely intended for domestic consumption in the United States.
**Ukraine’s President Meets Vance**
Despite the controversy surrounding Vance’s speech, he did meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two had a “good conversation” and emphasized the need for Washington and Kyiv to work together to stop Putin and end the war.
Zelensky stressed that Ukraine wants peace, but needs real security guarantees. He also highlighted the importance of speaking more and working together with the US to prepare a plan to stop Russia’s aggression.
**US Pulls Support from Ukraine**
The meeting came after President Trump effectively pulled the rug out from under Ukraine’s negotiating position by conceding that restoring Ukrainian territory is “not realistic.” The US has also ruled out sending troops to help protect Ukraine’s borders and dashed Kyiv’s hopes of joining NATO.
European leaders are worried that in Donald Trump’s rush to secure a peace deal, Putin will emerge victorious and stronger. They fear Russia may seize more land in Europe.
**Ukraine War to be Debated at Conference**
The war in Ukraine is set to take center stage on Saturday with a high-profile debate at the Munich conference. Delegates will focus on finding a way to end the conflict without giving in to Russia’s demands.