Rep. Don Bacon Criticizes Trump’s Stance on Ukraine-Russia War

Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) recently criticized former President Donald Trump’s stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, emphasizing that a majority of Americans hold Russia responsible for the conflict. Bacon referenced a Reuters/Ipsos poll, which found that 70% of Americans disagree with the notion that Ukraine is to blame for the war. Only 7% of respondents agreed with that statement. The poll also revealed bipartisan consensus, with 81% of Democrats and 62% of Republicans rejecting the idea that Ukraine is at fault. Bacon, a strong supporter of Ukraine, argued that moral clarity is essential in assigning blame and highlighted the importance of standing with Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Historical Context and Russian Aggression

Bacon also drew attention to Russia’s long history of hostility toward Ukraine, pointing to the 2004 poisoning of former Ukrainian President Victor Yushchenko. Bacon noted that Russia’s aggression predates the 2022 invasion, emphasizing that the conflict is not a recent development. He accused Russia of attempting to assassinate Yushchenko, who survived the poisoning but suffered permanent scars. By referencing this historical event, Bacon sought to underscore the depth of Russia’s animosity toward Ukraine and its democratic aspirations. He argued that the war is part of a broader pattern of Russian opposition to Western values, including democracy, free markets, and the rule of law.

Trump’s Controversial Remarks and Rift with Zelensky

President Trump has faced criticism for his remarks on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including calling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a "dictator" and suggesting that Ukraine bears responsibility for the war. Trump also expressed skepticism about U.S. support for Ukraine, leading to a rift with Zelensky during the latter’s visit to the White House in late February 2025. Zelensky had traveled to Washington to sign a mineral deal aimed at creating a joint mineral fund to benefit both countries and provide economic security for Ukraine. However, the meeting ended without an agreement, with Trump reportedly prioritizing U.S. interests over Ukraine’s needs. Many congressional Republicans sided with Trump, but Bacon condemned the outcome as "a bad day for America’s foreign policy."

Bacon’s Defense of Ukraine and Moral Clarity

Bacon has been a vocal advocate for Ukraine, aligning himself with the country’s democratic aspirations and its desire to integrate with the West. He criticized Trump’s approach, arguing that the U.S. should unequivocally support Ukraine against Russia, which he described as a force opposed to Western values. Bacon invoked the legacies of former Republican leaders like Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, and Dwight Eisenhower, asserting that standing against tyranny is a core part of the Republican tradition. He declared, "We stand with right vs. evil," emphasizing the moral imperative of supporting Ukraine.

Public Opinion and Divisions Over U.S. Policy

The Reuters/Ipsos poll also highlighted divisions over specific policy measures, such as the proposed mineral deal. While 46% of Americans, including 73% of Republicans, supported the idea of the U.S. receiving a share of Ukraine’s minerals, 50% of respondents disagreed. Democrats were particularly opposed, with 75% rejecting the proposal. These findings reflect broader disagreements over the extent of U.S. involvement in the conflict. Trump, for his part, has not labeled Russian President Vladimir Putin a dictator but did threaten sanctions against Russia if it continues its missile attacks on Ukraine and fails to negotiate a peace agreement.

Conclusion: The Broader Implications of U.S. Foreign Policy

Rep. Don Bacon’s critique of Trump’s stance on Ukraine underscores the ongoing debate within the Republican Party and the broader U.S. political landscape regarding foreign policy and moral leadership. Bacon’s emphasis on historical context, moral clarity, and the defense of democratic values contrasts sharply with Trump’s more ambiguous approach. As the war in Ukraine continues, the rift between these perspectives will likely shape the direction of U.S. policy and its role in the global conflict. Bacon’s statements serve as a reminder of the complex geopolitical stakes involved and the need for a unified response to Russian aggression.