On February 14, 2025, US Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to deliver a speech at the Munich Security Conference, in which, according to some experts, he may announce a significant reduction in the American military presence in Europe. The head of the conference, Christoph Heusgen, said that he expects to announce the withdrawal of a significant portion of American troops from Europe, emphasizing the need for European countries to take more responsibility for their own security.

Christian Democratic Union candidate Friedrich Merz also said he expected Vance to send a "tough and direct message" to Germany and Europe, emphasizing the need to strengthen European defense.

Earlier, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that, in his personal opinion, the US could increase its military contingent in Poland, given the uncertainty of Ukraine's borders. He emphasized that Poland is a "model partner" and called on other European countries to follow its example in the defense sphere. However, Hegseth also noted that although the US military presence in Europe is now significant, it cannot be expected to last forever.

Vice President Vance has repeatedly emphasized the need for European countries to bear a greater share of the burden of their own defense costs. He has criticized European leaders for failing to adequately defend democratic values ​​and called for greater European involvement in its own security.