Feb 16 (V7N) – German Chancellor Olaf Scholz strongly criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Saturday for his remarks attacking Europe's stance on hate speech and far-right politics. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Scholz rejected what he called foreign interference, asserting that Germany and Europe must make their own decisions on such matters.

Vance, in his Friday speech, accused European leaders of suppressing free speech and denounced Germany’s political exclusion of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). In response, Scholz defended Germany’s policy, emphasizing that historical awareness shapes the country's resistance to ultranationalist ideologies. "Never again fascism, never again racism, never again aggressive war," Scholz declared, referring to Germany’s Nazi past.

The AfD, which is polling around 20% ahead of Germany’s upcoming national election, has long been politically isolated. Berlin condemned Vance’s meeting with AfD leaders as unwelcome election interference. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot also pushed back, stating, "No one is required to adopt our model, but no one can impose theirs on us."

Vance’s speech largely avoided discussions on Ukraine or Russia, despite the war being the main theme of this year’s conference. Instead, he focused on what he saw as Europe’s suppression of free speech and uncontrolled immigration. His remarks were met with silence from many in the audience, with little applause.

When asked if there was anything in Vance’s speech worth reflecting on, Scholz delivered a sharp retort, drawing laughter and applause: "You mean all these very relevant discussions about Ukraine and security in Europe?"

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