Vance Addresses US Troops in the UK on Negotiations with Putin

Vice President JD Vance emphasized the importance of the US military’s strength in facilitating negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as he spoke to troops at Fairford Air Force Base in the UK. His remarks coincided with his meetings with various European leaders, all gearing up for potential discussions with Putin aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

“You all make this possible,” Vance, a former Marine, expressed to the service members. “Your presence allows us to engage in these talks knowing we have the backing of the world’s finest military power.”

Vance highlighted that the respect—perhaps even fear—some world leaders have towards the US military is crucial in diplomatic discussions. He remarked, “The fact that people are impressed with you is why we can operate as we do as a government.”

Fairford serves as a vital base for the US Air Force, housing key operational units. The Air Force frequently conducts training exercises with NATO allies from this location, including recent joint operations with Germany and Romania, particularly following the onset of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in March 2022.

Around 10,000 US troops are stationed in the UK, according to estimates. Vance mentioned he had just held discussions with approximately 30 European leaders regarding the ongoing dialogues about Ukraine’s situation.

The urgency of the summit with Putin, aimed at addressing the Ukrainian crisis, was a top priority for Trump this week. Vance shared that a recent meeting with European representatives about the conflict yielded significant progress, though specifics remain scarce.

He conveyed to European leaders that they must take a more proactive role in addressing the crisis, stating, “This is at your back door. If you’re invested in this conflict, you need to step up in a more meaningful way.”

Meanwhile, Trump commented on whether Putin is genuinely considering a negotiation, indicating his intention to involve European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in any potential agreements. “If it’s a fair deal, I’ll discuss it with NATO and EU leaders,” he remarked. “But, frankly, they may just say, ‘Good luck, keep fighting.’

As tensions remain high, this summit marks a pivotal moment—it’s the first in-person meeting between Trump and Putin since the Ukrainian invasion began.