Summary
Former CIA Director Leon Panetta warned that Trump’s return to the White House could embolden Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, giving him a “blank check” in the Middle East and increasing the risk of war with Iran.
Panetta expressed concern that Trump would support Netanyahu’s aggressive stance against Iran without restraint, potentially worsening regional instability.
Panetta also predicted Trump might allow Russia to retain parts of Ukraine if he returns to office, though he doubted Trump’s negotiation skills.
He criticized Trump’s approach to foreign policy, suggesting Trump would be inclined to “capitulate” to authoritarian leaders, which may not sit well with some Republicans.
We made a deal in the budapest memorandum: Ukraine gave up their nukes in exchange for a guarantee of the borders.
We can just give them back, or nukes of equivalent capability.
I’m joking, Ukraine were the brains of the Soviet Union, without them it’s just the world’s largest open-air fetal alcohol syndrome seminar.
Ukraine can rebuild their nuclear program in months, and I … need to go find somewhere to donate to that cause.