Former UK defense minister Grant Shapps expressed deep concern over Donald Trump’s lenient stance towards Russia and Vladimir Putin, particularly in the wake of a Russian missile strike in Ukraine. Shapps criticized Trump’s labeling of the strike as a “mistake” and likened it to evasive language used by terrorist groups like the IRA. He emphasized the need for Putin to withdraw from Ukraine to end the ongoing conflict that began with Russia’s invasion in 2022.

Shapps, who played a significant role in garnering international support for Ukraine, highlighted his disappointment in Trump’s failure to differentiate between a democratic nation and a dictator who suppresses opposition and invades sovereign territories. He underscored the demoralizing effect of this lack of moral clarity on the global democratic community.

Trump’s actions, including rebuking the Ukrainian president, seeking concessions, and appointing a controversial negotiator with pro-Putin sentiments, have strained relations with allies and drawn criticism. Despite diplomatic efforts, the war in Ukraine persists, marked by devastating Russian missile strikes on civilian areas, causing significant casualties.

Shapps raised concerns about the dangerous precedent set by appeasing autocrats like Putin, warning that such actions could embolden other dictators with territorial ambitions. He questioned the credibility of the West’s opposition to such aggressions if they allow one dictator to act unchecked. Shapps highlighted the need for moral clarity and decisive action in addressing the Ukraine conflict and countering authoritarian threats to global stability.