Trump's pick of JD Vance as running mate should alarm Europe Opinion by The Telegraph

Trump has chosen Ohio Senator JD Vance as his running mate. This decision has raised serious concerns in Europe about America's future commitment to the continent's defence. The selection of Vance, known for his isolationist stance and critical views on NATO, suggests a potential pivot towards an "America First, Europe Last" approach. The article published by the Telegraph elaborates on the profound implications this could have for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader security landscape in Western Europe, highlighting the urgent need for increased European self-reliance and strengthened defence capabilities. Caliber.Az reprints the piece.

If they weren't already sounding, the choice by former US President Donald Trump to select Ohio Senator JD Vance as his running mate should raise significant concerns in Europe about America's future defence role on the Continent.

This move is the strongest sign yet that Trump is embracing an "America First, Europe Last" policy, which could have substantial implications for the Ukraine conflict and the future of Western security.

Trump’s new running mate is not known for his strong stance on foreign policy: as Russia prepared to invade Ukraine in February 2022, the unconventional Ohio Senator remarked, “I gotta be honest with you, I don’t really care what happens to Ukraine one way or another.”

Since then, Vance has not only urged Ukraine to surrender and negotiate with Russia but has also criticized what he perceives as Europe and NATO’s overreliance on US security.

Under a Trump-Vance administration, there is a genuine risk that Europe could find itself isolated in facing the Russian threat. If there was ever a time to be alarmed, it is now.

J.D. Vance is a prominent figure in American politics, known for his diverse background and outspoken views.

Vance entered the political arena with a candidacy for the US Senate in Ohio. He aligned himself with the populist wing of the Republican Party, emphasising themes of economic nationalism and cultural conservatism. His campaign received significant backing from prominent figures, including venture capitalist Peter Thiel and former President Donald Trump.

As a US Senator, Vance quickly made a name for himself with his sharp critiques of both Democratic and Republican establishments. He focused on issues such as economic inequality, opioid addiction, and the influence of big tech companies. Vance also became known for his skeptical views on US foreign interventions and advocated for a more restrained foreign policy.

In 2024, Vance was chosen as Donald Trump's running mate for the presidential election, a decision that has generated significant attention and concern, especially in Europe. His selection has been seen as indicative of a potential shift in US foreign policy, raising questions about future support for NATO and other international alliances.