Category: Foreign Dictators

Trump Hosts Fascist Italian PM Meloni at Mar-a-Lago Amid Rising Authoritarianism

During a recent surprise visit to Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump extended praise to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, hailing her as a significant figure in European politics. Meloni’s emergence as a key player has been marked by her affiliation with the far-right Brothers of Italy party, which has drawn historical parallels to Mussolini’s regime, raising serious concerns about her influence in a continent still grappling with the consequences of authoritarianism.

Trump’s admiration for Meloni is not misplaced, as she represents a troubling shift towards nationalist and fascist tendencies in Europe. By stating that she has “taken Europe by storm,” Trump is effectively endorsing a political ideology that threatens democratic values. This meeting coincided with the screening of a pro-Trump documentary, underscoring the alignment of their far-right agendas and their mutual disdain for democratic principles.

Key attendees at the dinner included prominent Republican figures such as Senator Marco Rubio and Representative Mike Waltz, both of whom have been linked to Trump’s questionable foreign policy strategies. The absence of transparency regarding the discussions that took place further exacerbates concerns about the potential for secretive and unethical political arrangements, signaling a troubling precedent in American foreign relations.

The political bonds between Meloni and figures like Elon Musk, who was also present during a previous meeting, highlight a disturbing trend of collaboration among ultra-conservative leaders. Their efforts to shape global discourse align with the promotion of nationalism and anti-democratic sentiments, subverting the progress made in protecting civil liberties and human rights.

As Meloni prepares to meet with President Biden, it remains to be seen how the U.S. will address the growing influence of fascist ideologies exemplified by figures like Trump and Meloni. The international community must remain vigilant to ensure that the rise of authoritarian leaders does not further erode the foundations of democratic governance.

(h/t: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/giorgia-meloni-mar-a-lago-donald-trump/)

Trump Invites Authoritarian Leaders to Inauguration, Undermining Democracy

President-elect Donald Trump is inviting foreign leaders to his inauguration, breaking with a longstanding American precedent that discourages international heads of state from attending the transfer of power. Notably, Argentine President Javier Milei, who has been openly praised by billionaire Elon Musk, has confirmed he will travel to Washington for the event, marking a first for Argentina. The Salvadoran ambassador also mentioned an invitation for President Nayib Bukele, who remains undecided due to security concerns.

Trump’s invitation to Milei, described as an “anarcho-capitalist,” reflects a troubling alliance between far-right leaders that favors austerity and deregulation at the expense of the working class. Milei’s policies have already led to widespread layoffs and cuts to essential services in Argentina, a pattern that Trump seems eager to emulate in the United States.

During a recent press interaction, Trump mentioned he had also invited Chinese President Xi Jinping but left the invitation status ambiguous. When asked about other leaders, he declined to confirm whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was invited, suggesting an ongoing disregard for the plight of Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia.

The transition team has not elaborated on the full list of invited leaders, but Milei’s visit could signal a troubling shift in U.S. foreign relations, leaning toward authoritarianism and away from democratic norms. Trump’s presidency is increasingly characterized by partnerships with leaders who prioritize wealth and power over the needs of their citizens.

This inauguration is not just a ceremonial event; it symbolizes Trump’s ongoing efforts to forge alliances with foreign leaders who share his disdain for democratic accountability and social equity. The implications of this are dire for American democracy, as Trump continues to align himself with those who support a radical, anti-democratic agenda.

(h/t: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/world-leaders-argentina-el-salvador-invited-trumps-inauguration-116886655)

Trump’s Corruption Deepens with New Saudi Deal

Donald Trump has officially expanded his corrupt business dealings in Saudi Arabia with the announcement of Trump Tower Jeddah. This project, revealed by Eric Trump, comes as the Trump Organization continues to face declining real estate deals in the U.S. following the backlash from the January 6 Capitol riots. The tower marks the fifth collaboration between the Trump Organization and Dar Global, a Dubai-based developer, with a staggering investment of $532 million.

Previously, the Trump family had committed to refraining from signing new international deals during Trump’s presidency, but following his re-election, he appears unbothered by the ethical implications of such actions. This blatant disregard for conflict of interest raises significant concerns regarding corruption, especially given Trump’s long-standing business ties to Saudi Arabia.

Additionally, Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, has secured $2 billion from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, a move that has yet to yield any profit but indicates a troubling financial relationship. This partnership has deepened as Kushner and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have maintained frequent communication over the years, further entrenching the Trump family’s entanglement with foreign interests.

The Trump Organization’s reliance on lucrative Saudi projects highlights the extent of corruption within Trump’s administration. Despite the appearance of impropriety, Trump seems to prioritize personal financial gain over ethical governance, undermining American democracy in the process.

As Trump’s business interests continue to intertwine with foreign powers, it is clear that he is willing to sacrifice integrity for profit, showcasing a troubling trend that threatens the foundations of democratic governance. His actions exemplify a disregard for accountability and transparency, further solidifying the notion that Trump’s administration operates on a platform of corruption and self-dealing.

(h/t: https://news.yahoo.com/finance/news/trump-corruption-business-officially-expands-214057666.html)

Trump’s Controversial Praise for Saudi Crown Prince Highlights Ethical Concerns

In a recently aired interview with Saudi state media, former President Donald Trump lavished praise on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, referring to him as a “great guy” and a “visionary.” This comes despite the crown prince’s notorious reputation linked to human rights abuses and the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump’s comments seem to ignore the severe criticisms that have been levied against bin Salman, showcasing his continued obsession with maintaining close ties to authoritarian leaders.

During the interview, Trump expressed his belief that under his presidency, relations with Saudi Arabia were at their pinnacle, declaring it was “GREAT” with an emphasis on the word. However, this statement conveniently glosses over the fact that Trump’s administration faced scrutiny for its questionable dealings with the Saudi regime, including arms sales that bypassed Congressional approval and a troubling lack of accountability regarding Khashoggi’s murder.

Trump also criticized President Biden’s diplomatic approach, particularly a moment captured in a fist-bump with the crown prince, arguing that it was a sign of weakness. He insisted that his own gestures of friendship would have been more appropriate, further indicating his desire to present himself as the only viable leader capable of managing foreign relations effectively.

Moreover, it is essential to point out that Trump’s admiration for bin Salman aligns suspiciously with his family’s financial interests. Reports have surfaced revealing that Jared Kushner secured a massive $2 billion investment from the Saudi Public Investment Fund shortly after leaving the White House, raising ethical questions about the Trump family’s dealings with the Saudi regime.

This interview, coupled with Trump’s ongoing admiration for foreign dictators, raises alarm about his prioritization of personal relationships and financial gains over American values and human rights. The former president’s blatant disregard for the violent history of bin Salman exemplifies a troubling trend of normalization of authoritarianism that could have lasting implications on U.S. foreign policy.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/tv/trump-gives-an-interview-to-saudi-state-tv-praises-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-as-a-great-guy/amp/)

Trump’s Alarming Phone Call with Netanyahu: A Threat to U.S. Foreign Policy

Donald Trump’s recent phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised serious concerns about his conduct and intentions, particularly regarding U.S. foreign policy. Trump boasted about discussing military strategies in the Middle East, including Netanyahu’s decision to ignore President Biden’s warnings about troop movements in Gaza, which led to significant casualties, including the death of a Hamas leader. Such actions not only demonstrate a blatant disregard for diplomatic norms but may also amount to a violation of the Logan Act, which prohibits unauthorized communication between private citizens and foreign governments.

This incident is troubling not only because it highlights Trump’s reckless approach to international relations but also because it suggests he may be positioning himself to undermine current U.S. foreign policy if he were to regain power. By advising Netanyahu to act independently of Biden’s administration, Trump appears to be attempting to disrupt ongoing negotiations aimed at achieving peace in the region. Critics argue that this kind of interference jeopardizes U.S. interests and undermines the authority of the sitting president.

Historically, such interference has had dire consequences, as evidenced by Richard Nixon’s actions during the Vietnam War, where he reportedly urged South Vietnam to delay peace talks to benefit his electoral chances. Trump’s behavior echoes this troubling precedent, raising fears that he may prioritize personal political gain over national security. The implications of such actions could lead to prolonged conflict and instability, not just for the Middle East but for U.S. foreign relations as a whole.

Furthermore, Trump’s repeated dismissals of credible intelligence reports, including those regarding Israeli espionage, indicate a dangerous pattern of behavior that could further alienate U.S. allies. By aligning himself so closely with Netanyahu, Trump risks alienating the broader international community and compromising America’s standing on the world stage. This raises questions about his commitment to U.S. interests and the rule of law.

In summary, Trump’s phone call with Netanyahu is alarming and indicative of a broader pattern of reckless diplomacy that could have significant repercussions for U.S. foreign policy and national security. The potential for criminal conduct, combined with a willingness to undermine the current administration, highlights the need for scrutiny and accountability in Trump’s actions and intentions.

(h/t: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2024/10/us-israel-trump-phone-call-netanyahu-gaza-cease-fire-2024-election.html)

Trump Blames Zelensky for Ukraine War in Recent Interview

In a recent podcast interview, former President Donald Trump attributed blame for the ongoing war in Ukraine to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, rather than Russian President Vladimir Putin. This statement contradicts the established timeline and facts surrounding the invasion, which began with Russia’s troop buildup and subsequent attack on Ukraine on February 24, 2022.

Trump’s remarks came as he critiqued President Biden’s foreign policy and military support for Ukraine. He described Zelensky as an effective salesman for securing U.S. aid, asserting that Ukraine has received unprecedented financial support during the conflict. Trump claimed that Zelensky should have negotiated with Putin to prevent the war, framing the situation as a failure on Zelensky’s part.

During the interview, Trump said, “He should never have let that war start. That war is a loser,” highlighting his view that the responsibility for the destruction caused by the invasion lies with the Ukrainian leadership. This is not the first time Trump has expressed skepticism about Zelensky’s role in the crisis.

In previous statements, Trump suggested that a deal could have been reached to stave off the conflict, implying that Zelensky’s actions contributed to the current devastation. His comments reflect a continued strategy of blaming Ukrainian officials while minimizing the responsibility of Russia for its aggressive military actions.

This narrative aligns with certain viewpoints promoted by Russian state media, which often seeks to blame Ukraine for the consequences of the invasion. Trump’s remarks serve as a notable example of disinformation that distorts the events leading to the war, undermining the clear responsibility of Putin’s regime in initiating the conflict.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/17/us/politics/trump-zelensky-putin-ukraine-war.html)

Trump Campaign Legal Adviser Appears on Kremlin-Backed TV

A top Trump campaign adviser recently appeared on the Russian-government funded TV network RT, which U.S. intelligence agencies have said plays a role in the Kremlin’s plans to undermine American democracy.

Trump campaign senior legal adviser Jenna Ellis’ appearance on RT’s The Alex Salmond Show aired on July 9. She appears to be the first Trump campaign official to go on the Russian-funded network since the 2016 election. 

During her interview, Ellis defended Trump’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic and bashed the American media as “propagandist activist media.” Ellis also accused Fox News—the cable news network most friendly to the president—of having an anti-Trump bias.

“Even on Fox News, the president has been very outspoken on Twitter that there are some anchors there and there are some particular shows that aren’t really fair in terms of their editorializing some of those stories,” Ellis said. At one point, she told Salmond that he, a former First Minister of Scotland, knew “as a journalist” how proper reporting works and that American media wasn’t doing it. 

Ellis and the Trump campaign didn’t respond to a request for comment. 

Ellis isn’t the first Trump ally to appear on RT. Ret. Gen. Michael Flynn appeared several times on the network ahead of Trump’s election, and was paid $34,000 by RT for delivering a speech. Trump himself appeared in an RT America interview in September 2016, which was conducted by Larry King, the longtime CNN host who has found a late-career gig at the network.

RT, which was formerly known as Russia Today, has been routinely criticized as a propaganda outlet for Kremlin interests. Its programming is often hyper critical of U.S. policy and in 2016 its editorial content seemed designed for two major purposes: to foster social unrest in the United States and (perhaps relatedly) boost Trump’s candidacy. 

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence eventually released a report that said the network, whose videos receive millions of views online, produced content “aimed at undermining viewers’ trust of US democratic procedures.” The assessment, released in 2017, added that RT was a key part of the Russian efforts to meddle in that presidential election as part of a “Kremlin directed campaign to undermine faith in the US Government and fuel political protest.” 

[The Daily Beast]

Media

Trump again attacks US intel agencies from India when asked about Russian election interference

President Donald Trump on Tuesday was asked about reports that Russia is interfering in the 2020 presidential election during a press conference in India — and he used it as an opportunity to once again attack American intelligence agencies.

During his press conference, Trump alleged that no intelligence officials told him about Russian efforts to help his campaign even though they had briefed Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) about the ways Russia was working to boost his chances in the Democratic primary.

“Intelligence never told me!” he complained without evidence.

He then accused Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) of leaking the information about Russian wanting to help Trump and Sanders, although he cited no evidence to back up this claim.

[Raw Story]


Trump says US ready to strike 52 Iranian sites if Tehran attacks

The president’s remarks followed the US assassination of Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian general, in a drone strike.

Soleimani’s killing was a major escalation between the two nations, and Iran vowed to take “severe revenge”.

Writing on Twitter, Mr Trump accused Iran of “talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets”.

He said the US had identified 52 Iranian sites, some “at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture”, and warned they would be “HIT VERY FAST AND HARD” if Tehran struck at the US.

The president said the targets represented 52 Americans who were held hostage in Iran for more than a year from late 1979 after they were taken from the US embassy in Tehran.

Shortly after the president’s tweets were posted, the website of a US government agency appeared to have been hacked by a group calling itself “Iran Cyber Security Group Hackers”. A message on the American Federal Depository Library Programme site read: “This is a message from the Islamic Republic of Iran.

“We will not stop supporting our friends in the region: the oppressed people of Palestine, the oppressed people of Yemen, the people and the Syrian government, the people and government of Iraq, the oppressed people of Bahrain, the true Mujahideen resistance in Lebanon and Palestine, [they] will always be supported by us.”

The web page contained a doctored image of President Trump, depicting him being hit in the face and bleeding at the mouth. “This is only small part of Iran’s cyber ability!” read text on the site.

[BBC]

Reality

I’m old enough to remember five years ago when conservative news was (correctly) pointing out destruction of cultural sites is an internationally recognized war crime.

Trump Told Mar-a-Lago Pals to Expect ‘Big’ Iran Action ‘Soon’

In the five days prior to launching a strike that killed Iran’s most important military leader, Donald Trump roamed the halls of Mar-a-Lago, his private resort in Florida, and started dropping hints to close associates and club-goers that something huge was coming.

According to three people who’ve been at the president’s Palm Beach club over the past several days, Trump began telling friends and allies hanging at his perennial vacation getaway that he was working on a “big” response to the Iranian regime that they would be hearing or reading about very “soon.” His comments went beyond the New Year’s Eve tweet he sent out warning of the “big price” Iran would pay for damage to U.S. facilities. Two of these sources tell The Daily Beast that the president specifically mentioned he’d been in close contact with his top national security and military advisers on gaming out options for an aggressive action that could quickly materialize.

“He kept saying, ‘You’ll see,’” one of the sources recalled, describing a conversation with Trump days before Thursday’s strike.

Trump’s gossipy whispers regarding a “big” response in Iraq foreshadowed what was to come. After hours of silence, senior officials in the Trump administration argued that what had taken place in Iraq was not an act of aggression. Instead, they said both publicly and behind closed doors on the Hill that killing Qassem Soleimani was designed to “advance the cause of peace,” as U.S. Special Envoy for Iran Brian Hook put it in a Friday interview. 

Those Mar-a-Lago guests received more warning about Thursday’s attack than Senate staff did, and about as much clarity. A classified briefing on Friday, the first the administration gave to the Hill, featured broad claims about what the Iranians were planning and little evidence of planning to bring about the “de-escalation” the administration says it wants.  

According to three sources either in the room or told about the discussion, briefers from the State Department, Pentagon, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence claimed that killing Soleimani was designed to block Iranian plans to kill “hundreds” or even thousands of Americans in the Mideast. That would be a massive escalation from the recent attack patterns of Iran and its regional proxies, who tend to kill Americans in small numbers at a time. 

“This administration has absolutely not earned the benefit of the doubt when it makes these kinds of claims. When you’re taking action that could lead to the third American war in the Middle East in 20 years, you need to do better than these kinds of assertions,” said a Senate aide in the room. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has also said publicly that the Iranians planned to kill hundreds of Americans before Soleimani’s killing.

Nor, said four sources who requested anonymity to discuss a classified briefing, did the briefers provide detail on a key question surrounding an act of war against a regional power: what next? 

[The Daily Beast]

1 2 3 … 21