In a powerful speech delivered at the Munich Security Conference, US Vice-President Kamala Harris reaffirmed America's commitment to defend democratic values both at home and abroad. She addressed a wide range of issues, including the reported death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, America's role in global leadership, and the importance of working with allies and partners.

Harris expressed her condolences upon hearing the news of Navalny's reported death in Russia, describing it as "terrible news" and expressing her prayers for his family. She emphasized that if his death is confirmed, it would be a further sign of President Vladimir Putin's brutality. Harris made it clear that Russia will be held responsible and that the United States will have more to say about the situation in due course.

Discussing America's global engagement, Harris posed critical questions for the American people to consider. She emphasized the importance of continuing to engage with the world, defending longstanding rules and norms, and fighting for democracy. Harris argued that fulfilling the longstanding role of global leadership is in the fundamental interest of the American people.

However, she acknowledged that there are divergent views within the US, with some advocating for isolationism, embracing dictators, and abandoning commitments to allies. Harris cautioned against this approach, stating that it is dangerous, destabilizing, and short-sighted. She stressed that such a worldview would weaken America and undermine both global stability and prosperity.

Harris praised Europe for its solidarity with Ukraine, particularly in the face of Russian aggression. She assured the audience that President Joe Biden and herself stand with Ukraine, while emphasizing the importance of NATO in deterring aggression and highlighting Europe's increased defense spending.

In a separate panel on risks to global economics, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron underscored the need for political will to solve problems. He acknowledged that protectionism is not the cause but a symptom of populism, and stressed the importance of addressing the underlying causes of people feeling left behind by globalization.

The Munich Security Conference also saw meetings between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Yulia Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny's wife, as well as European Union High Representative Josep Borrell and Yulia Navalny. Both European leaders expressed their solidarity and condemned the actions of the Russian government.

Additionally, representatives of Israeli hostages' families made a plea for the return of their loved ones, including a mother seeking the release of her daughter, Naama, who is held hostage in Gaza.

Vice-President Harris concluded her speech by reaffirming America's commitment to lead, underscoring the importance of global cooperation and collaboration to achieve shared goals. Her remarks highlighted the need to defend democratic values and uphold international rules and norms in order to ensure both American strength and safety.

As the Munich Security Conference continues, world leaders and policymakers are engaging in discussions focused on international security, global economics, and important regional issues, shaping the future of international relations.