Senior Conservatives Criticize Trump Over Alliance With North Korea and Russia
Senior Tories have condemned President Trump for aligning with North Korea and Russia, warning it jeopardizes world peace. Lord Heseltine stated that this alliance could embolden authoritarian nations, especially after the U.S. voted against a crucial UN resolution condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Other Tory leaders echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the serious implications of Trump’s foreign policy. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, however, insisted on recognizing the U.S. as an ally while distancing from Trump’s remarks about Ukraine.
Senior members of the Conservative Party have criticized President Donald Trump for forming a dangerous alliance with North Korea, China, and Belarus, following his refusal to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Lord Heseltine warned that Trump’s actions could strengthen authoritarian regimes, undermining global peace efforts. This condemnation came after the Trump administration, aligned with these nations, voted against a UN resolution condemning Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, which had garnered the support of most countries, especially European ones.
The resolution in question, which was initiated by Ukraine and supported by various European nations, received 93 votes in favor, while 18 were against and 64 abstained. Heseltine, reflecting on the historical reliance on the United States for supporting democracy, stated, “Those of us who admire America will find this axis of the US with China, Russia and North Korea in a UN vote inexplicable.” This sentiment underscores the discontent regarding the current U.S. political climate under Trump.
Former Tory leaders and officials expressed their disapproval as well. Sir Iain Duncan Smith described the situation as disgraceful, stating, “The ‘leader of the free world’ siding with totalitarian states guilty of murder, slave labor, war and genocide.” Moreover, Sir Malcolm Rifkind inferred that Trump’s tactics were aimed at currying favor with Putin, yet noted that inviting Ukrainian President Zelensky to the White House could be a strategic move.
In her recent foreign policy address, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch adopted a more diplomatic stance, recognizing the United States as an ally while distancing herself from Trump’s controversial remarks about Zelensky. Last week, Trump called Zelensky a dictator, asserting that Ukraine bore responsibility for the war’s outbreak in 2022. He maintained his view that Russia’s invasion could have been deterred during his presidency.
Despite acknowledging Putin’s invasion, Trump has refrained from labeling him a dictator, suggesting that he chooses his words carefully. In a press briefing with French President Emmanuel Macron, he stated, “I don’t use those words lightly. We are going to see how it all works out. We will see what happens,” reflecting his uncertain stance on international relations.
The reactions from senior Conservative Party officials reveal deep concerns over President Trump’s recent foreign policy decisions and his alliances with authoritarian regimes. By siding with North Korea, China, and Belarus while dismissing condemnation of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Trump has drawn significant criticism for potentially jeopardizing global peace. This dichotomy in U.S. foreign policy underscores the complexities and risks involved in international relations today.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
