Trump is shaking up Washington, D.C. Old loyalties are being broken.
Now ex-Obama official handed Donald Trump a victory that left Barack fuming mad.
A Glimmer of Peace in Russia-Ukraine Conflict
A surprising nod of approval came from an unexpected corner Thursday when former Obama Defense Secretary and CIA Director Leon Panetta praised President Donald Trump for laying the groundwork for a potential Russia-Ukraine ceasefire.
The prospect of a “clean” deal has injected fresh hope into a weary conflict.
The breakthrough stems from Tuesday, when Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed Ukraine’s acceptance of a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the Trump administration. The ball’s now in Russia’s court, with all eyes on President Vladimir Putin.
In a Thursday address, Putin responded cautiously: “The idea itself is correct, and we certainly support it. But there are issues that we need to discuss.” His hesitance keeps the deal in limbo, but the door’s not shut.
Panetta’s Praise and a Call to Hold Firm
Appearing on “CNN News Central,” Panetta didn’t hesitate to give Trump his due.
“He’s been able to negotiate the possibility of a clean ceasefire. That’s to his credit,” he said, spotlighting Trump’s diplomatic finesse. But he paired the compliment with a challenge:
“Look, this is a test for the president. Whether he is going to stand strong for doing the right thing or whether he caves in to Putin, that’s going to be the issue. And I hope he stands strong.”
Panetta’s words carry weight, urging Trump to keep the pressure on. He cautioned against muddying the talks with side issues, warning it could “undermine [the] ability to get a ceasefire now.”
Instead, he urged a laser focus on the immediate goal. “What the president has to make clear to Putin is that he has a chance to accept a ceasefire now that will stop the killing,” he said. “Let’s do that and then let’s negotiate on the longer-term issues.”
Trump’s Optimism Meets Putin’s Pause
Panetta’s remarks landed just after Trump voiced cautious optimism to reporters, reacting to Putin’s statement.
“A lot of the details of a final agreement have actually been discussed,” Trump said. “Now we’re going to see whether or not Russia is there.”
He called Putin’s response “very promising” but noted it’s still a work in progress, adding, “If they’re not, it’ll be a very disappointing moment for the world.”
Trump’s holding out “hope” that Russia will “do the right thing,” a sentiment that echoes Panetta’s push for resolve. The ceasefire’s fate hangs on Putin’s next move, but the fact that it’s even on the table marks a shift—proof that Trump’s approach might just be cracking open a path to peace.
