Sat Feb 15 17:09:12 UTC 2025: ## Scholz Rebukes Vance for Criticizing Europe’s Stance on Far-Right

**Munich, Germany** – German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sharply criticized U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on Saturday for attacking Europe’s approach to hate speech and the far-right. Scholz’s rebuke came in response to Vance’s Friday comments at the Munich Security Conference, where he accused European leaders of censoring free speech and criticized the German mainstream parties’ rejection of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).

Scholz stated that it was inappropriate for others to dictate Germany and Europe’s actions, particularly among allies. He emphasized the valid reasons for not cooperating with the AfD, a party currently polling around 20% and holding pariah status due to Germany’s historical context and strong aversion to ultranationalism. Scholz underscored Germany’s commitment to preventing a repeat of its Nazi past, stating, “Never again fascism, never again racism, never again aggressive war.”

Vance’s meeting with the AfD leader and subsequent endorsement of the party as a political partner were dismissed by Berlin as unwelcome interference in the upcoming German national election on February 23rd. Scholz defended Europe’s measures to curb hate speech, arguing that they are crucial for protecting democracies from internal threats. He clarified that these measures are not restrictive but rather protective of freedom.

Read More