Bulwark Takes: "GOP Hypocrisy: They Once Stood With Ukraine—Now They Bow to Trump"
Release Date: February 21, 2025
Overview
In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosted by Sarah Longwell, the discussion centers on the alarming shift within the Republican Party regarding their stance on Ukraine and Russia. Longwell critiques the Republicans' transition from staunch support of Ukraine to seemingly appeasing Russian aggression under the influence of former President Donald Trump. Through detailed analysis and compelling quotes, the episode underscores the erosion of traditional Republican foreign policy principles in favor of political allegiance to Trump.
Host Introduction
Sarah Longwell opens the episode by expressing her dismay at the changing narrative around Ukraine and Russia within the Republican Party. She highlights the stark contrast between past Republican support for Ukraine and the current trend of blaming Ukraine and downplaying Russia's longstanding threat to America.
Notable Quote:
"The news cycle doesn’t slow down, and neither does The Bulwark." (00:00)
Republican Shift on Ukraine and Russia
Longwell delves into recent developments where prominent Republicans have altered their rhetoric concerning Ukraine and Russia. She references a White House briefing where National Security Adviser Mike Walz indicated alignment with President Trump's assessment, signaling a broader trend among Republicans to align with Trump's foreign policy perspectives, often at the expense of traditional alliances.
Key Points:
- Trump's Criticism of Ukraine: Donald Trump has launched attacks against Ukrainian President Zelensky, labeling him a dictator and attributing the war's initiation to Ukraine.
- Absence of Criticism Towards Russia: Unlike his stance on Ukraine, Trump has refrained from criticizing Russia or President Putin, indicating a preferential alignment.
- Historical Republican Support: Longwell reminisces about Republicans like Marco Rubio and Lindsey Graham, who previously advocated for strong support of Ukraine and condemnation of Russian aggression.
Notable Quote:
"The war has to end." – Mike Walz (00:00)
Analysis of Specific Republican Figures
Marco Rubio
Longwell examines Marco Rubio's transformation from a vocal critic of Russian aggression to a proponent of establishing economic ties with Russia post-conflict. She juxtaposes Rubio's past statements condemning Putin with his current role as Secretary of State, where he advocates for engagement with Russia.
Notable Quotes:
"There must be a consequence for this action." – Lindsey Graham (03:33)
"The Russian side will be indispensable to this effort." – Marco Rubio (04:29)
Lindsey Graham
Lindsey Graham is scrutinized for his apparent acceptance of Trump's rhetoric that seems to favor Russia over Ukraine. Longwell points out Graham's shift from advocating "peace through strength" to supporting Trump's controversial stance, which she argues undermines ongoing support for Ukraine.
Notable Quotes:
"If history has taught us anything, it's that appeasing aggression gets you more aggression." – Donald Trump (Undated within transcript)
"There's no off ramp for this war." – Marco Rubio (06:55)
Nikki Haley
Nikki Haley is highlighted as a critical voice within the GOP who recognized Trump's intentions early on. Although she initially opposed Trump’s approach to Russia, her endorsement of Trump despite knowing his alignment with Russian interests is portrayed as a betrayal of Republican principles.
Notable Quotes:
"Trump would side with a madman who's made no bones about the fact he wants to destroy America." – Nikki Haley (08:46)
"We are going to abandon our friends and we're going to side with murderous dictators." – Sarah Longwell (09:35)
Critique of Current GOP Alignment with Trump
Longwell passionately argues that the Republican Party has sacrificed its foundational foreign policy values to remain loyal to Trump. She laments the party's abandonment of allies like Ukraine in favor of appeasing aggressors like Russia, leading to significant geopolitical ramifications.
Key Points:
- Erosion of Alliances: The GOP's pivot has led to weakened support for Ukraine, potentially emboldening Russian aggression.
- Political Allegiance: Longwell emphasizes that allegiance to Trump has overshadowed previous Republican commitments to international stability and ally protection.
- Consequences of Appeasement: Drawing parallels to historical appeasement failures, she warns of increased aggression from adversaries as a result of the GOP’s current stance.
Notable Quote:
"If you want to see true delusion, Lindsey Graham is pretending that Trump is more pro Ukraine than Biden." (05:02)
Conclusion
Sarah Longwell concludes by mourning the Republican Party's departure from its earlier, more principled stance on foreign policy. She underscores the moral and strategic failings of the GOP in prioritizing political loyalty over national and international interests. The episode serves as a call to action for Republicans to reclaim their commitment to defending allies and standing against authoritarianism.
Final Notable Quote:
"I hope the death of millions of Ukrainians and the erasure of their national sovereignty was worth it." – Sarah Longwell (09:35)
Key Takeaways
- Shift in Republican Foreign Policy: The GOP has moved from strong support of Ukraine to a stance that appeases Russian aggression, influenced heavily by Trump’s rhetoric.
- Influence of Trump: Political loyalty to Donald Trump is leading Republicans to compromise on long-held principles regarding international alliances and opposition to authoritarian regimes.
- Impact on Ukraine: Reduced support from the US Republican Party potentially jeopardizes Ukraine's sovereignty and undermines efforts to counter Russian aggression.
- Call for Reassessment: The episode urges Republicans to realign with their foundational values of supporting allies and ensuring global stability, moving away from partisan loyalty that compromises national interests.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical analysis presented in the episode, highlighting the internal conflicts within the Republican Party and the broader implications for US foreign policy.