Senior Tory politicians, including Lord Heseltine, have condemned President Trump for siding with North Korea, China, and Belarus after they rejected a UN resolution condemning Russia. This collaboration raises concerns about global peace and stability. Figures such as Sir Iain Duncan Smith and Sir Malcolm Rifkind have voiced their discontent, while Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has taken a more conciliatory approach, yet maintains concerns regarding Trump’s rhetoric about Ukrainian leadership.
Senior Tory figures have expressed grave concerns regarding President Donald Trump’s collaboration with authoritarian regimes, specifically North Korea, China, and Belarus, which many believe undermines global peace. Lord Heseltine cautioned that Trump’s decisions may encourage threats to stability worldwide. This criticism arose following Trump’s administration joining these nations in opposing a UN resolution that condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, an act supported overwhelmingly by Europe and other allies.
The UN vote occurred shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron’s meeting with Trump. Historically, North Korea was part of President George W. Bush’s notorious ‘axis of evil’ speech. Heseltine lamented this alignment with totalitarian states, emphasizing the historical reliance on American support to combat fascism. Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith echoed these sentiments, labeling it a regrettable day as Trump sides with regimes known for oppression and violence.
Additionally, former Foreign Secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind criticized Trump’s tactics, suggesting they were aimed at ingratiating himself with Russian President Vladimir Putin, although he expressed cautious optimism about Trump inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House. The United States did suggest an alternative resolution promoting peace but fell short of directly attributing blame to Russia in the ongoing conflict.
In contrast, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch adopted a more conciliatory stance, acknowledging America’s role as an ally while reiterating her disagreement with Trump’s previous remarks regarding Zelensky. Recently, Trump reiterated his belief that Zelensky provoked the war and refrained from calling Putin a dictator. Furthermore, he emphasized caution with such labels and expressed a wait-and-see approach regarding future developments.
In summary, senior Tory officials criticized President Trump for his alignment with North Korea, China, and Russia, which they argue endangers global peace. Key figures like Lord Heseltine and Sir Iain Duncan Smith voiced concerns regarding this alliance with autocratic states. While there are differing opinions within the party, the broader sentiment reflects discontent with how Trump is navigating international relations, notably in response to the conflict in Ukraine.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
