As the conflict in Ukraine persists, a prominent Republican senator has urged former President Donald Trump to adopt a firmer stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana stated on “Fox News Sunday” that Putin has consistently disregarded commitments made to Trump. “His current demands are essentially nonexistent—he seeks to retain all conquered territory, bar Ukraine from NATO membership, and halt American and European aid,” Kennedy explained.
“I believe Mr. Putin views the United States as easily manipulated.”
Recent polling data reveals growing public concern regarding Trump’s approach to Russia and Ukraine. A Fox News survey indicated that 36% disapprove of his handling of Russian relations, while 39% express dissatisfaction with his actions concerning Ukraine. Public opinion remains divided on the extent of continued U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense.
Trump recently criticized Putin, questioning whether the Russian leader is genuinely pursuing peace or merely attempting to exploit him. This came amid renewed airstrikes in Ukraine following days of intense fighting and a meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—their first since a contentious encounter at the White House earlier this year during Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome.
Kennedy further asserted that Putin’s behavior stems from a perceived lack of respect for American leadership. “He has repeatedly undermined President Trump, and I don’t foresee any improvement unless we definitively demonstrate to Mr. Putin that there will be severe consequences for his actions.”
Trump publicly demanded an immediate cessation of attacks on Kyiv and voiced displeasure with the Kremlin’s ongoing offensive in Ukraine. He also rebuked Zelenskyy after the Ukrainian leader reaffirmed Crimea’s sovereignty, a region Russia seized in 2014.
Despite Putin’s rejection of various U.S. peace proposals, the White House remains hopeful that Trump could facilitate a resolution to the conflict.
“We must subdue and constrain Russia; otherwise, they will not engage in negotiations,” Kennedy declared. “A settlement in Ukraine is essential. Furthermore, Europe must significantly increase its contributions.”
- Kennedy emphasized that without American financial support, Putin would likely be exerting influence elsewhere.
“Europe needs to shoulder greater responsibility for their own security and defense,” he added. “Ultimately, we need to make it clear to Putin that his disrespect towards our president will come at a considerable cost.”
