Chancellor Scholz Condemns U.S. Vice President for Supporting AfD Party

Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance for supporting the far-right AfD party at the Munich Security Conference. Scholz affirmed that Germany will not allow outsiders to interfere in its elections and democratic processes. Vance’s controversial statements about European democratic values and his meeting with AfD leadership have been met with significant backlash.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz publicly rebuked U.S. Vice President JD Vance for his endorsement of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Scholz firmly stated that Germany will not tolerate interference from outsiders in its democratic processes, particularly from allies. He emphasized the importance of self-determination in shaping Germany’s political future.

Scholz’s remarks came a day after Vance’s controversial speech, where he suggested that European governments were compromising on democratic principles. In his address, Vance claimed that Europe’s most significant threats arise from within, rather than from external forces such as Russia or China. He criticized the European Union Commission for perceived restrictions on social media and condemned European judicial actions regarding election outcomes.

Following his speech, Vice President Vance met with AfD Co-Chair Alice Weidel, which raised diplomatic concerns just ahead of Germany’s parliamentary elections on February 23. His comments regarding the mainstream parties’ approach towards the AfD were met with disapproval, as he criticized their refusal to collaborate with the party. Notably, conference organizers excluded Weidel due to the AfD’s anti-democratic stance.

The incident highlights the growing tension between U.S. political figures and European democratic norms. Scholz’s defense of German sovereignty underscores the importance of maintaining independence from external influences in democratic processes. Vance’s remarks and actions, particularly his meeting with AfD leadership, reflect a controversial stance that has provoked widespread condemnation in Europe.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr