Haley had some some words for Trump.
Nikki Haley, former Republican governor and presidential candidate, recently criticized her 2024 election rival, former President Donald Trump, over his comments on Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelensky. As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, Trump has ramped up his criticism of Zelensky, accusing him of mishandling the war and taking advantage of U.S. aid. He suggested that Zelensky and his leadership were responsible for the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe. Trump also claimed that Zelensky had done a “terrible job” leading the country and called the U.S. aid to Ukraine an unfair burden.
Haley, who had previously run for president but ultimately endorsed Trump, responded by calling Trump’s remarks “classic Russian talking points” and aligning with the rhetoric that benefits Russian President Vladimir Putin. She expressed concern that such criticisms played directly into Putin’s hands and undermined the interests of the West.
The tension came as high-level U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, met with Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia to initiate peace talks aimed at rebuilding relations with Moscow. Ukraine was not represented at the meeting, further deepening the divide.
Trump’s criticisms of Zelensky escalated, labeling him a “dictator” who had failed to hold elections amid Ukraine’s ongoing martial law. However, a recent poll showed that 57% of Ukrainians trust Zelensky, a response that contradicts Trump’s narrative.
Haley, known for her strong foreign policy stance, has long supported Ukraine, arguing that backing the country aligns with American national interests. She has also endorsed Ukraine’s eventual NATO membership.
Trump’s rhetoric has faced backlash from within his own party, including former Vice President Mike Pence, who reminded Trump that Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine sparked the war. Republican senators like Thom Tillis have also praised Zelensky for his leadership, recognizing the Ukrainian president’s role in uniting his nation against Russian aggression.
As the Republican party grapples with its stance on Ukraine, it’s clear that Haley’s views on foreign policy set her apart from Trump’s increasingly isolationist position. While Trump has been critical of U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Haley advocates for a strong U.S. presence in defending democracy abroad.