Senior Tories Blast Trump Over Alliance With North Korea and Russia

Senior Tory members condemned Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy, particularly his refusal to denounce Vladimir Putin and his alliance with authoritarian regimes like North Korea and China. Key figures like Lord Heseltine warned this could create instability, while others criticized Trump for undermining democratic values and aligning with totalitarian states.

Senior Tory figures have expressed serious concerns over Donald Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his reluctance to condemn Vladimir Putin’s actions in Ukraine, which they argue threatens global stability. Lord Heseltine emphasized that the alliance between the US and nations like China and North Korea forms a “new axis” that could encourage aggressive actions from authoritarian regimes. Heseltine stated that many who respect America found this alliance inexcusable, given the historical context of US support against fascism.

Additionally, Sir Iain Duncan Smith criticized Trump for aligning with authoritarian governments, remarking that past leaders would disapprove of his foreign policy stance. He condemned the US’s position in international matters, stressing the implications of siding with regimes accused of severe human rights violations. Sir Malcolm Rifkind acknowledged the unpredictability of Trump’s tactics but suggested that inviting Ukrainian President Zelensky to the White House might indicate a shift in approach.

Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, aimed for a more amicable tone, affirming that while disagreements exist within US politics, America remains a crucial ally. She addressed Trump’s previous comments about Zelensky, diverging from Trump’s assertion that the Ukrainian president is a dictator. In contrast, Trump has reiterated claims about the Ukrainian situation, often placing blame on Zelensky for the onset of the war, while maintaining his avoidance of labeling Putin directly as a dictator.

After the UN vote against Russia, which saw a critical lack of support from Trump’s administration, many influential British politicians remain concerned about the implications for both European security and democratic values. The US’s proposal for an alternative resolution was criticized for not holding Russia accountable for the ongoing conflict.

In summary, senior Tories have sharply criticized President Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his alignment with nations that defy democratic principles, warning that this could destabilize global peace efforts. Key political figures like Lord Heseltine and Sir Iain Duncan Smith underscore the historical significance of US alliances in maintaining global order, while different perspectives within the Tory party reflect ongoing debates about America’s role in international politics. Overall, the discussions highlight the potential risks of such alliances in the pursuit of national interests.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk