Germany Warns US VP Vance Against Political Interference Ahead of Elections

U.S. Vice President JD Vance's recent comments at the Munich Security Conference advocating for cooperation with Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party have sparked significant backlash from German leaders. Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned Vance's remarks, asserting that supporting the AfD contradicts Germany's commitment to never allow fascist ideologies to resurface. Vance's assertion that democracy should not have 'firewalls' against any party has been met with firm resistance from Germany's defense minister and government spokesperson, who emphasized the importance of domestic sovereignty in electoral matters. The German government has urged foreign officials to refrain from interfering in their electoral processes, particularly in light of the upcoming elections on February 23. Vance's comments have not only drawn ire from German officials but have also been criticized by conservative leaders in Germany who are facing scrutiny for their own positions on the AfD. The controversy highlights the sensitive nature of political discourse in Germany, especially given its historical context.