Leading conservative commentator Andy McCarthy, joined by several Republican senators, has fiercely criticized Donald Trump for actions perceived as 'giving aid and comfort' to Vladimir Putin, specifically regarding an 'energy ceasefire' and sanctions relief for Russia, sparking a Republican revolt over Ukraine policy.
Conservative commentator Andy McCarthy, a former Fox News contributor, has launched a blistering attack on former President Donald Trump, accusing him of 'giving aid and comfort' to Vladimir Putin. McCarthy, who distanced himself from Trump after the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, described the administration's 'energy ceasefire' and decision to drop sanctions on Russian diesel as 'the last straw' for both Democrats and Republicans. In a scathing column for National Review, McCarthy denounced Trump's 'reprehensible diesel deal' with Russia, arguing it offered no concessions from Putin on Ukraine, likely violated federal law, and would have a negligible impact on U.S. diesel prices. He also exposed the 'energy ceasefire' as 'non-existent' and 'rigged against Ukraine,' noting it only applied to oil refineries, of which Ukraine has none while Russia possesses dozens. This, McCarthy stated, was insidiously designed to prevent Ukraine from deterring Russian aggression while enabling Russia to destroy Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Furthermore, McCarthy highlighted White House-imposed restrictions on the Starshield satellite system for Ukraine, which he believes facilitated a 'suspiciously timed attack' by Russia, demanding immediate congressional hearings and suggesting 'dark signs' point to a conscious action by the administration to leave Ukraine exposed. This criticism has resonated with some Republicans in Congress. Senator John Cornyn of Texas called Trump's actions 'reckless' and warned of Putin's ambitions beyond Ukraine. Cornyn, along with Senators Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Thom Tillis, signed a bipartisan letter demanding an investigation into the Starshield restrictions. Senator Thom Tillis called the decision to drop sanctions 'beyond irresponsible,' suggesting solving the Iran problem instead of 'doing a solid for Vladimir Putin.' Senator Lindsey Graham (referred to as Darline Graham in the text) also expressed a preference for 'keeping the pressure on Russia' due to distrust of Putin, despite sharing goals of ending the war and lowering fuel prices.
