Trump & Vance WRECK Europe

The Toronto Plane Crash

Shapiro begins by discussing a dramatic incident involving a Delta Airlines plane that landed at Toronto Pearson Airport and flipped over onto its roof. Fortunately, all 80 passengers survived, although 15 were injured, two critically. Shapiro speculates that pilot error was likely the cause of the crash, dismissing any connection to broader issues like FAA staffing or Trump-era cuts. He criticizes the media's tendency to link such incidents to political figures, arguing that the focus should remain on the individuals directly responsible for the crash.

Bill Burr's Controversial Remarks

The conversation shifts to comedian Bill Burr, who has recently made headlines for his aggressive stance against billionaires. Shapiro expresses his disappointment in Burr, who he believes has lost touch with economic realities. Burr's comments suggest that billionaires should be "put down like rabid dogs," a statement Shapiro finds both morally and economically ignorant. He argues that wealth in a capitalist society is typically generated through innovation and the creation of goods and services, not through theft or exploitation. Shapiro warns that such rhetoric could lead to dangerous populist sentiments if economic conditions worsen.

Trump’s Cultural Presence

Shapiro then transitions to discussing President Trump's recent public appearances, including his participation in the Daytona 500, where he received a warm welcome. He notes that Trump's approval ratings remain high, contrasting this with the low approval ratings of figures like Chuck Schumer. Shapiro emphasizes the importance of Trump's cultural presence and popularity as a counterbalance to the left's increasingly radical views.

U.S. Foreign Policy and Europe

A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to the evolving U.S. foreign policy under Trump, particularly regarding Europe and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Shapiro highlights Vice President JD Vance's recent speech at the Munich Security Conference, where he criticized European nations for their failure to uphold fundamental values and security responsibilities. Vance's remarks reflect a broader strategy by the Trump administration to push European countries to take more responsibility for their own security, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Shapiro argues that the U.S. has long subsidized European security, and it is time for Europe to step up. He discusses the recent diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Russia in Saudi Arabia, which have raised concerns among Ukrainian officials about being sidelined in negotiations. Shapiro suggests that the U.S. is using these talks as leverage to encourage European nations to contribute more significantly to Ukraine's defense.

The Ukraine Situation

As the discussion continues, Shapiro addresses the complexities of the Ukraine conflict, noting that both President Zelensky and President Putin need an "off-ramp" to de-escalate the situation. He posits that the U.S. may be preparing to impose a deal that could be unfavorable to Ukraine, but necessary for broader geopolitical stability. This approach, he argues, is aimed at forcing European nations to take a more active role in supporting Ukraine, rather than relying solely on American aid.

Domestic Issues and Controversies

Shapiro also touches on various domestic controversies, including the fallout from Elon Musk's personal life and the implications of his recent child with Ashley Sinclair. He critiques the media's portrayal of Musk and the sensationalism surrounding his relationships, emphasizing that the real victim in such situations is often the child.