U.S. Vice President Vance answered reporters’ questions at the airport before traveling to Kansas to campaign for the midterm elections to be held in November. In his remarks, he assessed developments in the Middle East and artificial intelligence regulation.
Vance said the Houthis’ seizure of Perim Island was concerning. Vance said they were closely monitoring the situation in the region and were in constant communication with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and other relevant parties.
Vance also disclosed that they were holding direct talks with the Houthis and said he believed the situation was under control. Vance said the dynamics in the region were constantly changing and that the United States would continue to protect its interests.
Emphasis on confidence in the Pentagon
Asked whether his meeting with military leaders in the region to receive information about developments in the Middle East was connected to his confidence in the Pentagon, Vance said he trusted U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Dan Kane.
Vance said he found it very strange that a report gave the impression that the vice president had been calling admirals and generals to understand U.S. foreign policy, adding that the report portrayed the meetings in that way.
Artificial intelligence regulation
Vance also said he found it strange that industry executives were calling for the technology to be slowed down so that artificial intelligence technologies would not cross a dangerous threshold. Comparing the demands by numerous advanced artificial intelligence companies for government regulation to a “Trojan horse,” Vance said caution was needed in this area.
Vance said artificial intelligence had benefits as well as risks and noted that President Donald Trump had highlighted the long-term competition between the United States and China. He said the United States wanted to take rational steps, closely monitor developments and stay ahead of its rivals.
Vance said he did not believe the American people should fear artificial intelligence and called for Congress and the White House to reach an agreement on the issue. He said such an agreement would make it possible to take lasting steps.
