If anyone wants to see your shit they can install something on your telephone pole that can supercede a VPN anyway.

False.

My WireGuard VPN uses pre-verified encryption keys and all data between the nodes is encrypted with them.

Nothing (whether put there by the cell carrier, public wifi provider, or some gang member on the telephone pole) can decrypt that communication except the devices which already have the keys.

I’m not sure what makes you think VPN security is moot, but you are misinformed.

Using a VPN is always more secure than not using one, particularly if you control the server on the other end.

The only time a VPN wouldn’t help is if your device itself is compromised at which point you have other problems than a VPN anyway