The 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC) that had been drawing attention concluded on Sunday, February 16th. During the closing speech, the conference chairman and veteran German diplomat Christoph Heusgen questioned the lack of a shared foundation of values between Europe and the United States, which unexpectedly led to him breaking down in tears.
Heusgen, in his final remarks as the MSC chairman, expressed concern, stating that “after Vice President Vance’s speech on Friday, we have to worry that our common values are no longer so common.” Subsequently, his voice choked up, tears fell, and he had to prematurely end his speech, leaving the podium.
Vice President Vance of the United States harshly criticized the European allies for allegedly suppressing freedom of speech, failing to uphold democratic commitments, and issues like large-scale migration during his speech at the Munich Security Conference on February 14th.
Vance asserted that the primary European threat that concerns the United States is not Russia, China, or any other external force, but rather internal threats, as Europe seems to be abandoning some fundamental values that were once shared with America.
Amid the focus on the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire issue at the conference, the speech by the American Vice President was highly anticipated. Heusgen had expressed hope before the conference began that President Trump could put an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In an interview with Bloomberg TV on Sunday, Heusgen revealed his surprise at Vance’s speech, pointing out that the Vice President did not delve much into foreign policy but discussed values, elections, and even mentioned right-wing parties in Europe. This stirred shockwaves in the venue, sparking reflections on whether there still exists a common transatlantic foundation of shared values.
Following Vance’s speech, EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, invited foreign ministers attending the Munich Security Conference for a meeting on Sunday to discuss relations with the Trump administration and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Additionally, European leaders are planning a meeting in France.
Heusgen disclosed that Europe is seeking changes to adapt to the new U.S. President’s attitude towards Europe. Meanwhile, he confirmed that the U.S.’s commitment to NATO’s security umbrella for Europe remains unwavering.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine issue, Heusgen emphasized that mere expressions of willingness to sit at the negotiation table are not enough; substantial proposals and concrete plans need to be put forward to solidify Europe’s stance on security matters.
Addressing the lack of strong leadership in Europe, Heusgen hinted at the possibility of the German conservative Chancellor candidate and Christian Democratic Union (CDU) chairman Friedrich Merz becoming the next leader. He suggested that Merz could collaborate with France and play a role on the international stage.
69-year-old Heusgen, a long-time advisor to former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, passed on the MSC chairmanship to former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the handover ceremony held at the Bayerischer Hof hotel in Bavaria.
Stoltenberg will take on the position of Finance Minister in the upcoming transitional government in Norway for six months before assuming full responsibility for organizing the MSC and preparing for the next conference in February 2026.