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Sen. Schiff Critiques Trump Over Ukraine Deal

Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), known for his critical stance towards former President Donald Trump, expressed significant concern regarding the administration’s approach to Ukraine. He believes that a considerable number of Americans are experiencing a sense of shame related to Trump’s actions in seeking to secure a deal with Ukraine that would grant the U.S. access to its valuable mineral resources.

During a recent interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, Schiff stated, “I think millions and millions of Americans watching this not only disagree with the president, but — perhaps for the first time — are just downright ashamed of him because we have betrayed an ally.” He emphasized that this betrayal extends not only to Ukraine but also to fundamental democratic principles, questioning whether the U.S. is shifting towards a purely transactional foreign policy devoid of commitment to democratic values and alliances.

Schiff’s comments come just ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s anticipated visit to the White House, where discussions are expected to revolve around a long-awaited minerals agreement. Zelensky, at a news conference, indicated that while a framework for the economic deal had been established, it lacked crucial security guarantees that Ukraine considers essential.

This proposed agreement would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. Trump has presented this notion as a means for Ukraine to reciprocate the aid provided by the U.S. during the Biden administration. However, Zelensky has voiced the importance of clarifying the U.S.’s stance on ongoing military support, a matter he intends to address during his visit.

In the lead-up to the meeting, Trump remarked, “I’m not going to make security guarantees beyond very much,” indicating a preference for European nations to assume that responsibility. This statement drew sharp criticism from Schiff, who articulated that it appeared to pressure Zelensky into making concessions without adequate guarantees in return.

Schiff described Trump’s approach as one of the “most shameful incidents in modern history,” referencing a recent U.N. resolution where the U.S. aligned with Russian interests over Ukraine. He underscored that the implications of such actions resonate deeply, portraying a troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities.

Source
thehill.com