During a speech at the Reagan National Defense Forum, outgoing Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell subtly criticized President-elect Donald Trump's foreign policy views. McConnell drew on former President Ronald Reagan's firm Cold War stance to warn that some influential voices are ignoring key lessons from that era as global threats continue to escalate.
McConnell emphasized that America will not be made great again by those who are content to manage its decline, alluding to Trump's campaign slogan. Trump has been critical of global alliances like NATO and hesitant about US involvement in foreign conflicts, including providing aid to Ukraine in its fight against Russia. In contrast, McConnell has been a strong advocate for US aid to Kyiv, stating that every argument against it is wrong.
Despite stepping down from his party leadership position in January, McConnell will chair the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. He has expressed his intention to focus on combating the isolationist strain within his party during the remainder of his time in office.
McConnell was honored at the event with the 'Peace Through Strength' award, alongside outgoing Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. McConnell stressed the importance of renewing America's leadership on the world stage through a steadfast commitment to 'peace through strength.'
During the forum, Austin announced a $1 billion military aid package for Ukraine, underscoring the need for US leadership in global affairs.
