Republicans are very upset and rightfully so.
As the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies, one leading Republican senator is urging President Donald Trump to hold Russian President Vladimir Putin accountable.
Speaking on Fox News Sunday, Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) delivered a powerful message about American strength and leadership.
“Putin has broken every promise he made to President Trump,” Kennedy said. “Now he demands to keep the Ukrainian land he stole, block Ukraine from joining NATO, and force America and Europe to step aside. Putin thinks America is losing its resolve — and he is wrong.”
Americans Support Strong Leadership
Recent Fox News polling shows that voters remain divided on President Trump’s handling of Russia and Ukraine.
While 36% express concerns over Russia policy, and 39% are critical of the Ukraine response, there is broad agreement that America must stand firm to protect freedom.
Sen. Kennedy emphasized that decisive leadership is the only path forward.
“Putin thinks we are afraid,” Kennedy said. “He has underestimated President Trump at every turn. It’s time to make it clear that disrespecting the United States carries serious consequences.”
New Attacks Demand a Firm Response
Overnight airstrikes by Moscow struck Ukrainian cities once again, even as President Trump met face-to-face with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the funeral for Pope Francis in Rome.
It was their first meeting since a tense exchange earlier this year in Washington.
Last Thursday, President Trump publicly called on Putin to immediately stop attacks on Kyiv. Trump made it clear he was “not happy” with the Kremlin’s continued aggression.
Meanwhile, Trump also stood firm on U.S. policy regarding Crimea, criticizing Zelenskyy for refusing to acknowledge the reality of Russian occupation, which began during the weak Obama-Biden years.
Europe Must Pay Its Fair Share
Sen. Kennedy also stressed the importance of holding America’s European allies accountable.
“Without the sacrifices of the American taxpayer, Putin could be marching through Europe right now,” Kennedy said. “Europe must do more. America cannot be the world’s only line of defense.”
He added, “There must be real costs for Putin’s aggression. President Trump’s strong leadership is exactly what America — and the world — needs right now.”
A Path Forward for Peace
Despite repeated setbacks, the Trump administration remains optimistic that determined American leadership will bring Putin back to the negotiating table.
Sen. Kennedy’s call for strength sends a clear message: America will always defend freedom, stand with our allies, and protect our future.
