US VP Criticizes Germany’s Free Speech Laws at CPAC

US Vice President JD Vance expressed disapproval of Germany's free speech laws at a conservative event near Washington. He linked these restrictions to the presence of American troops in Germany, questioning American taxpayer support if individuals face legal action for online comments in the country.

During a gathering outside Washington, US Vice President JD Vance criticized Germany's free speech laws, connecting them to the continued presence of American troops stationed in the country.

Germany enforces strict limitations on speech, including a longstanding ban on Holocaust denial and Nazi glorification. These laws aim to curb extremism, leading authorities to monitor online platforms for hate speech and apprehend individuals responsible for such content.

Vance, addressing the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), questioned whether American taxpayers would support the stationing of troops in Germany if individuals were jailed for contentious online remarks. He emphasized that the US-Germany alliance might rely on both nations moving in the right societal direction, further claiming that Germany's defense is subsidized by American taxpayers.

(With inputs from agencies.)