STORY
Former Conservative foreign secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind has strongly criticised Donald Trump’s policy towards Ukraine, describing the US president as “repulsive” and “a disgrace”. Speaking to Sky News on Sunday 18 October, Rifkind accused Trump of abandoning his international responsibilities and betraying Ukraine while it continued fighting Russia’s invasion.
Rifkind argued that restrictions on Ukraine’s access to American intelligence would undermine its protection against Russian attacks. He accused Trump of bearing direct responsibility for Ukrainian deaths as a consequence. He also claimed the president’s approach was motivated by a desire to lower oil prices and improve Republican prospects in the forthcoming US midterm elections.
The intervention came amid controversy over Trump’s easing of sanctions against Russia and efforts to secure Russian fuel supplies. Rifkind, who served as both defence secretary and foreign secretary under John Major, presented his criticism as a challenge to the president’s judgement and priorities. His claims about Trump’s motives and responsibility for casualties were his assessment.