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The messages shared in the chat highlighted a startling disdain for European nations. Vance expressed his frustration over America's obligation to support Europe, suggesting that he did not want to "bail Europe out again." Hegseth agreed, calling "European freeloading" pathetic, and Stephen Miller, Trump's deputy chief of staff, proposed finding a way to make Europeans compensate the US for military efforts. This private conversation illustrates a narrative that many in Trump's circle feel is justified: European nations are relying heavily on America's military and economic support without offering enough in return.