Security over VRT: A New Reality for the Czech Republic and Europe

U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s speech at the Munich Security Conference on February 14 represents a significant turning point in U.S.-Europe relations. Vance sharply criticized European elites for censorship, mass immigration, and Europe’s insufficient ability to defend its own security interests. His remarks, which triggered strong reactions among European diplomats, clearly highlighted the growing differences between the U.S., returning to nationalism and realism, and Europe, still adhering to liberal universalism.

Vance emphasized that America’s main priorities are confronting China and Islamist extremism. He urged Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security, particularly regarding Russia, rather than continuing to rely on the United States. According to Vance, European countries must clearly define their national interests and significantly strengthen their defense capabilities if they wish to influence conflict resolutions, such as the war in Ukraine.

This perspective underscores the necessity for countries like the Czech Republic to prioritize investments in their own defense over projects such as the high-speed railway (VRT). Given that automatic U.S. support is no longer guaranteed, investing in their own security becomes an urgent and strategic priority.

JD Vance reminded Europeans of the realities of a multipolar world, where cooperation must be grounded in clearly defined national interests.

As we have seen subsequently, that is exactly what is coming to play.