Mike Pompeo and the future of Ukraine under potential Trump presidency: a unique perspective
Gordon reminded his guests that Ukraine is in anticipation of the results of the US presidential elections. Ukraine is openly apprehensive that Trump, should he win, might deprive them of aid as a result of an agreement with Vladimir Putin.
Mike Pompeo reassured that a presidency under Donald Trump should not evoke fear in Ukraine. The former CIA chief highlighted that it was Trump who, during his first term, made the decision to provide Ukraine with defensive weapons even before a full-on war had broken out.
"Whilst you fear Trump returning to power, remember that the atrocities that Ukrainians face due to the invasion did not occur during Trump's tenure. This fact is often forgotten, with people placing their trust more on social media and less on the actual events that took place," Mike Pompeo said.
Mike Pompeo vigorously asserted that while Donald Trump was in the White House, he was able to "discourage Vladimir Putin" from instigating warfare, and that once he left office, "everything fell apart."
"We should provide Ukraine with the resources it needs, and allow them to achieve the most significant goal: to make Putin reconsider his plans by imposing significant costs. We all know how this is done," added Trump's ally.
Mike Pompeo on America and Europe's missteps
In reference to Pompeo's expertise, Gordon asked for his predictions on the length of the conflict in Ukraine and how it might conclude. The former CIA chief accepted that it all hinged on whether the world wields adequate support for Ukraine and importantly, that it avoids becoming 'hostages of the aid' offered.
"One of my regrets is that while the USA and Europe have done commendable work supporting Ukraine, we have ended up restricting the Ukrainians," said Pompeo.
He further added that it's essential not just to equip Ukraine with suitable resources, but to also grant them the liberty to "impose such severe costs on Putin that he rethinks his strategy." Pompeo clarified that he wasn't referring to "internal changes," but to a "change in the plans for Ukraine."
"We are all aware of how this can be achieved and I hope it gets implemented sooner rather than later," assured Mike Pompeo.
During the discussion, the blockage of the aid package for Ukraine in the US Congress was also brought up. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick reassured that the package would get approved. "By next week, after a conversation with the speaker about his intentions, we should have a clearer picture. Then we can respond, taking his answer into consideration," the congressman said.
