Condoleezza Rice Sides With Trump

President Trump’s tough new approach to Russia is earning praise from one of America’s most respected foreign policy leaders. Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice called Trump’s ultimatum to Moscow a “turning point” in the fight for peace in Ukraine — and a sign the West is finally serious about stopping Vladimir Putin’s aggression.

“The past week was a real turning point,” Rice said Thursday at the Aspen Security Forum. “The strongest message we can send is that Putin won’t be stopped by words alone. Only real consequences will make him back down.”

Trump Issues Clear Warning to Putin: Ceasefire or Face Crushing Sanctions

Just days before Rice’s remarks, President Donald Trump issued a powerful ultimatum: Russia has 50 days to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine — or face severe sanctions and steep tariffs. Trump also floated a 100% tariff on countries that keep importing Russian oil and gas, sending shockwaves through global markets.

“We’re very unhappy with Russia,” Trump said during a White House meeting on July 14. “If there’s no deal soon, there will be serious economic consequences — very severe tariffs.”

This move follows pressure from conservative national security leaders like Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), who’ve pushed for stronger sanctions to stop Putin’s brutal war.

Rice: Biden’s Delays Gave Putin the Upper Hand

Rice didn’t hold back in her criticism of the Biden administration, blaming slow U.S. action in 2022 for prolonging the war.

“Had we given Ukraine the weapons they needed early on — when Russia was off balance — they could’ve won outright,” she said. “That moment was lost.”

Many conservatives have echoed the same frustration, pointing to the Biden White House’s weak and delayed response while praising Trump’s peace through strength strategy.

U.S. Steps Up Military Aid Under Trump’s Leadership

In a significant shift, the Trump administration reversed a Pentagon pause and is now sending more weapons to Ukraine — including the highly advanced Patriot missile defense systems. NATO will help cover the cost, easing the burden on U.S. taxpayers.

This marks a return to Trump’s foreign policy style: get results, get allies to pay their share, and keep America first.

“The only one we haven’t been able to reach yet is Russia,” Trump said earlier this week. “Ukraine is ready. But every time we get close, Putin launches more missiles into Kyiv. It has to stop.”

Tough Sanctions Could Force Putin’s Hand

Rice acknowledged that secondary sanctions targeting countries like China and India may be challenging — but not impossible.

“If you’re China, struggling economically, or India, not wanting to choose sides — you might rethink buying discounted Russian oil,” she said.

The message is clear: under Trump’s leadership, the U.S. is putting real pressure on Putin and his allies — and conservatives are taking notice.

Bottom Line: Strong Leadership Makes a Difference

As the Biden administration stumbles through foreign policy blunders, President Trump is taking bold, decisive action to protect American interests, stop endless wars, and restore global respect.

With top figures like Condoleezza Rice backing his strategy, the momentum is shifting — and Trump’s America First doctrine is once again setting the standard for peace and power on the world stage.