JD Vance’s Munich Speech Now ‘Official Doctrine,’ EU Leader Says

European officials have characterized recent statements by Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump as representing official American doctrine, marking a significant shift in US foreign policy. The assessment comes as Trump pressures Ukraine on territorial concessions while attacking European immigration policies.
Trump’s proposed Ukraine peace framework would require President Zelenskyy to accept land transfers to Russia within an extremely short timeframe. US envoys have reportedly given Ukraine only days to respond, with Trump seeking to announce a deal before Christmas. The president’s public statements about Russian military superiority have raised concerns about whether he is undermining Ukraine’s negotiating position.
The president’s rhetoric about Europe has focused heavily on immigration, with Trump claiming that demographic changes pose an existential threat to European civilization. He used explicitly racial framing to describe immigrants from Africa and the Middle East, suggesting their presence is making European societies “not viable.” His comments about major cities having changed dramatically centered on increasing diversity, which he portrayed negatively.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan again became a target of Trump’s personal attacks, with the president using exceptionally severe language. Trump’s criticism of London centered on demographic shifts and Khan’s leadership, with the attacks appearing connected to Khan’s identity as London’s first Muslim mayor. Khan responded by characterizing Trump’s focus as obsessive while defending London’s diversity and success.
European Council President António Costa noted that Vance’s Munich speech and Trump’s statements “have become official doctrine of the United States, and we must act accordingly.” This assessment, shared by other European leaders, has accelerated discussions about European strategic autonomy. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that Europe can manage its own democratic affairs, while EU officials described the White House approach as provocative. The situation has strengthened European determination to develop independent security capabilities and reduce dependence on American commitments.