Former Representative Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), a vocal opponent of ex-President Trump, has raised alarms about the rise of a ‘Putin wing’ within the Republican Party, emphasizing the need to block its path to the White House.
GOP’s Pro-Putin Shift?
Speaking on CNN’s ‘State of the Union,’ Cheney strongly rebuked Trump’s recent remarks hinting at a refusal to defend NATO allies against Russian aggression, and his silence following the demise of Russian anti-corruption, pro-democracy activist Alexei Navalny.
Taking Trump’s Words Seriously
“I think that we have to take Donald Trump very seriously,” Cheney urged on Sunday. “We have to take seriously the extent to which you have now got a Putin wing of the Republican Party.”
Election Cycle and NATO
Cheney further emphasized in the interview, “I believe the issue this election cycle is making sure the Putin wing of the Republican Party does not take over the West Wing of the White House.”
Against Trump’s Return
Cheney refrained from endorsing any presidential candidates and remained non-committal about her own potential candidacy. However, she firmly stated her intention to do everything in her power to block Trump’s potential return to the presidency.
Analysis of Trump’s Remarks
Reflecting on Trump’s remarks, Cheney told CNN’s Jake Tapper, “Donald Trump, as you pointed out, said just a few days ago that he had told a NATO ally that he would encourage [Russian President Vladimir Putin] to do whatever he needed to do, whatever he wanted to do.”
Holding Trump Accountable
She voiced her concerns further, stating, “He’s basically made clear that, under a Trump administration, the United States is unlikely to keep its NATO commitments. And I think that Republicans who understand the importance of the national security situation who continue to support him are similarly going to be held to account.”
‘Disgraceful’ NATO Stance
On being questioned about Trump’s NATO stance, Cheney expressed dismay, “It’s disgraceful. I can’t imagine any other American president of either party since the establishment of NATO saying such a thing. And it’s completely uninformed and ignorant and dangerous.”
Trump vs. Putin
Cheney also linked Trump’s hints at targeting his political rivals in a potential second term to Navalny’s death, asserting, “When you think about Donald Trump, for example, pledging retribution — what Vladimir Putin did to Navalny is what retribution looks like in a country where the leader is not subject to the rule of law.”
Trump’s NATO Hint
Cheney’s remarks are a direct response to Trump’s controversial statements about NATO’s future. Trump recently stirred controversy by hinting he might not defend European nations against Russian attacks if re-elected, and could even ‘encourage’ the Russians ‘to do whatever the hell they want.’
Suggesting Support for Russia
At a campaign rally in Conway, South Carolina, Trump based his stance on the financial contributions of NATO members, recalling an incident during his presidency. He narrated an interaction with a leader who questioned the U.S.’s support in case of a Russian attack due to unpaid dues.
Blunt Message at Rally
Trump’s reply was blunt: “No, I would not protect you,” and he went further, suggesting he might actually motivate Russia in their actions.
Post-9/11 Solidarity
The NATO charter mandates that members assist each other in case of an attack. This principle was put into action when NATO came to the aid of the U.S. following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Defense Spending
Contrary to what some may think, NATO members don’t pay traditional dues. Instead, they follow a budget formula, which Trump has often inaccurately described throughout his career.
2% GDP Defense Benchmark
NATO countries are encouraged to allocate a minimum of 2% of their GDP to defense, a benchmark not every member has achieved, leading to Trump’s ongoing disapproval of the alliance.
NATO’s ‘Success Story’
Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina Governor and a rival of Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, hailed NATO as ‘a success story for the last 75 years.’
During her appearance on CBS’ ‘Face The Nation,’ Haley rebuked Trump for siding with Putin again, labeling the Russian leader as ‘a thug who kills his opponents.’
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