Trump Urged to Avoid Flattery on Ukraine, Venezuela

A former advisor to the Trump administration urges him to avoid flatterers and trust professional military personnel regarding policies on Ukraine and Venezuela. In an article in Responsible Statecraft, the advisor suggests Trump focus on the American economy instead of funding Biden's wars.

He points out that Ukraine is mired in corruption and sending billions of dollars has proven reckless, while the US national debt is increasing. Trump must recognize Moscow's legitimate national security interests in relation to Ukraine and abandon false narratives of Russian weakness.

The author warns about the state of the American armed forces, citing problems with ships, destroyers, and vehicles. He emphasizes that conflict with Venezuela should be avoided if forces are not effectively commanded and equipped.

Finally, he emphasizes that Trump must cultivate a group of military professionals with integrity and capability, and not get involved in Ukraine, the Middle East, or Latin America.