A wave of controversy has followed remarks made by United States Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference, where he delivered a sharp critique of Europe’s current political and economic situation. According to Vance, Europe’s greatest threat stems from within: the erosion of democratic principles, the suppression of free speech, and rising intolerance—alongside challenges posed by unchecked migration. He invoked Saint John Paul II’s exhortation “Do not be afraid,” calling on Europe’s leaders to trust their citizens and the future.
Yet Vance’s critical stance has not only stirred debate on political liberties and civic rights—it has also spotlighted Europe’s struggling economy. Earlier this week, former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki sounded the alarm on social media, stressing that the United States’ economy is now about 50 percent larger than that of the European Union. He argued that while Europe chose a path of regulations and “focusing on trivialities,” the U.S. opted for innovation and rapid economic growth.
“He Told the Truth”
In an interview with journalist Michał Rachoń, Daniel Obajtek—an MEP from Poland’s Law and Justice (PiS) party and former president of oil giant PKN Orlen—responded to both Vice President Vance’s critique and mounting concerns over the EU’s weakening economic position.
“Now there is outrage over what the U.S. Vice President said, but he simply told the truth,” Obajtek remarked. “It also affects business. A business driven by ideology—be it Marxism, communism, or leftism—may very well fail.”
Obajtek described the prevailing atmosphere in the European Parliament as “leftist idiocy,” which he believes is eroding Europe both morally and economically. He pointed out that the EU seems more intent on competing within its own borders than tackling larger global rivals like China and the U.S.
Return to Europe’s Roots
When asked what could be done to reverse Europe’s downward trajectory, Obajtek proposed two main strategies:
- Return to the “Europe of Fatherlands.” He called for a re-focus on the founding principles of the European project, emphasizing the importance of preserving national identities and interests within the EU framework.
- Strengthen Ties with the U.S. Obajtek underlined the importance of forging a robust transatlantic alliance—particularly in the realms of energy and innovation. He argued that securing substantial contracts for American gas and oil could create a powerful incentive for U.S. investors, and with it, enhanced security for Europe.
“If Americans were to sell gas and oil in this region for around 200 billion złotych—about 50 million dollars—then we would be fully safe. No one can guarantee security if there is no stake or shared interest in the region,” he added.
Europe’s Dwindling Competitiveness
Obajtek echoed Morawiecki’s view that overregulation within Europe and disproportionate influence from larger EU states is taking a toll on poorer, less developed member countries. This internal competition, he said, distracts from the real challenge—maintaining competitiveness with global economic heavyweights.
“Europe has chosen regulations and is busy with things that don’t bring real economic growth,” Morawiecki noted in his earlier statement. “Meanwhile, the U.S. has chosen innovation and rapidly expanded its economy.”
A Call for Bold Action
The recent debate—ignited by Vice President Vance’s speech in Munich—highlights a mounting consensus that Europe cannot afford to remain complacent. Obajtek, along with several other prominent politicians, insists that without a decisive shift in strategy, the EU risks slipping further behind the U.S. and other global competitors.
Whether European leaders will heed these warnings and pivot towards freer markets, stronger transatlantic ties, and a return to founding democratic values remains to be seen. However, the underlying message from both sides of the Atlantic is clear: the time for bold economic and political action in Europe has never been more urgent.