U.S. Vice‑President J.D. Vance has warned that Europe is at risk of “civilizational suicide” due to its handling of immigration and limitations on free speech.

In remarks made during a television interview on March 14, 2025, he argued that many European countries are “unable or unwilling” to control their borders.

He singled out Germany, stating that if immigration continues from cultures he described as “totally culturally incompatible”, Germany “will have killed itself” while emphasising that he hoped it does not, citing his desire for the country’s continued prosperity .

During the same interview, Vance said Europe has begun to restrict citizens’ rights to protest immigration, framing those restrictions as evidence of a broader retreat from democratic norms.

He called for respect for sovereignty and civil liberties, stating that while he supported Europe as an ally, he believed the United States could not correct these issues on their behalf .

Vance reiterated similar criticisms on February 14, 2025, in a keynote address at the Munich Security Conference, where he described internal threats—such as erosion of free speech—as more dangerous to Europe than external actors like Russia or China.

He referenced recent electoral developments, alleged censorship laws and the exclusion of populist voices from political discourse.

Vance linked the migration crisis and a vehicle attack in Munich to what he framed as deliberate political choices by European leaders .

European officials responded sharply to Vance’s remarks.

Germany’s defence minister described his characterisation of European countries as authoritarian unacceptable, while senior EU officials accused the administration of instigating conflict with longstanding allies.

Concerns were voiced that his remarks aided narratives favourable to far‑right parties, especially in Germany ahead of elections .

Vance’s statements surface amid broader policy debates over migration, integration and the preservation of democratic freedoms across the continent.

He framed Europe’s Christian civilisational roots as foundational, warning that cultural and legal shifts could undermine social cohesion and liberal values.

He reaffirmed that the U.S. remains supportive of European security, while urging European states to assert responsibility over their own borders and civic institutions .