A prolonged conflict could give Vance space to argue he reflected the anti-war instincts of Trump’s base without openly breaking with the president. "No amount of crazed media speculation about Vice President Vance and Secretary Rubio will deter this administration's mission of fighting for the American people," spokesman Steven Cheung said. The White House has downplayed any rift between the president and vice president. "Vice President Vance is proud to be a part of a highly effective team that, under President Trump’s bold leadership, has had incredible success in making America safer, more secure and more prosperous," a Vance spokeswoman said. At a televised Cabinet meeting on Thursday, the contrast between Rubio and Vance was on display.

Source: The Telegraph March 29, 2026 15:28 UTC