Scholz Criticizes Vance for Interfering in German Politics

Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany strongly rebuked Vice President JD Vance for urging German leaders to allow the Alternative for Germany (AfD) into their federal government, stating that such actions undermine Germany's commitment to never allow another fascist regime.

At the Munich Security Conference held on Saturday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his disapproval of U.S. Vice President JD Vance's interference in German affairs, particularly his support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Vance had suggested during the conference that German leaders should remove barriers preventing the AfD from entering the federal government. Scholz responded vehemently, asserting that Vance’s comments conflicted with Germany's pledge to avoid any resurgence of fascism, a sentiment rooted in the country’s historical atrocities.

In his address, Scholz emphasized that “a commitment to ‘never again’ is not reconcilable with support for the AfD.” He underscored the party's history of downplaying Nazi atrocities, such as the horrors at Dachau concentration camp, which Vance notably visited just before making his remarks. This led Scholz to assert that Germany would not tolerate external meddling in its democratic processes, especially regarding alliances with parties that he deemed unacceptable.

Scholz further stated, “Where our democracy goes from here is for us to decide,” making it clear that guidance from outside powers on German governance would not be welcomed. The Chancellor’s comments highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding the rise of far-right movements in Europe and the delicate nature of international dialogues on political ideologies.