JD Vance calls immigration ‘greatest threat’ to US and Europe at CPAC

His comments mark a major shift in American foreign and domestic policy under the new Trump administration, focusing on stricter border security and reducing military commitments to Europe.

Ukraine War and relations with Russia

Vance also made bold claims about the war in Ukraine, stating, “I really believe we are on the cusp of peace in Europe for the first time in three years.” He argued that the only way to end the war is through dialogue with all parties, including Russia.

As The Guardian reports, his remarks highlight the administration’s stance that previous US and European policies on Ukraine have been misguided. Hours before his speech, Vance defended the administration’s approach on X , dismissing concerns over its Ukraine policy as “moralistic garbage.”

Nationalist figures at CPAC

CPAC 2025 has seen a shift towards nationalist politics, with figures like Steve Bannon, Britain’s Nigel Farage, and billionaire Elon Musk playing key roles. Thousands of attendees dressed in “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) gear and patriotic costumes, reinforcing the movement’s populist identity.

European right-wing leaders were also present. Hungarian politician András László, head of the Patriots for Europe foundation, echoed Vance’s concerns about free speech. The Guardian quoted him saying, “We need to stop stifling freedom of speech, have more discussion, even if sometimes that might be painful for some people.”

Liz Truss joins the conversation

Former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss, who resigned after just 49 days in office, also spoke at CPAC.

Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss speaks during the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC, in Oxon Hill, Md. (AP)

Reinventing herself as a right-wing populist, she blamed “shadowy elites” for her political downfall. “The British state is now failing, is not working. The decisions are not being made by politicians,” she said, calling for a UK version of CPAC.

Criticism of Germany’s defence policy

Vance also suggested that future US military support for European allies could depend on their domestic policies. He took aim at Germany, criticising the country’s reliance on American military protection while limiting free speech.

The Guardian quoted him saying, “Germany’s entire defence is subsidised by the American taxpayer. There are thousands upon thousands of American troops in Germany today. Do you think the American taxpayer is going to stand for that if you get thrown in jail for posting a mean tweet?”

Vance’s speech signals a clear shift in US policy under Trump’s leadership, prioritising national interests over traditional global commitments.