Vance in Milan says the Olympics unite Americans

Vice President JD Vance arrived in Milan to lead the U.S. delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics and told athletes the Games "unite the entire country." After the Olympics he plans to travel to Armenia and Azerbaijan to follow up on a U.S.-brokered peace agreement.

Vice President JD Vance arrived in Milan with his family to lead the U.S. delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics. He told U.S. athletes that the Games "is one of the few things that unites the entire country." The visit mixes public support for athletes with diplomatic work. After the Olympics he will travel to Armenia and Azerbaijan to build on a peace agreement brokered by the White House. Notable details: - Vance is leading the U.S. delegation to the Milan Cortina Winter Games and arrived with his family. - He said the Games bring people across political lines together and that the nation is "rooting for you." - The U.S. delegation attending the opening ceremony includes Second Lady Usha Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta, along with former Olympic medalists. - Vance plans to watch the U.S. women's hockey team in a preliminary game against Czechia. - After the Olympics he will visit Armenia and Azerbaijan to follow up on a U.S.-brokered peace agreement. Summary: Vance framed the Olympics as a unifying event while representing the United States in Milan. He will continue the trip to Armenia and Azerbaijan to advance diplomatic follow-up on the peace deal.