By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Following an FBI raid on John Bolton’s home and office related to classified documents, the former national security advisor criticized Trump’s Ukraine policy in a recent op-ed. Bolton argued that Trump’s attempts to negotiate peace with both Russia and Ukraine were incoherent and counterproductive, potentially hindering a just settlement. Trump, who claims he was unaware of the raid until after it occurred, has been at odds with Bolton since 2019. Vice President JD Vance stated the investigation into Bolton is in its early stages and driven by the national interest.
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John Bolton’s initial comments, released after the FBI searched his home and office, focused squarely on his former boss, Donald Trump, and delivered a stinging critique of Trump’s recent actions. The former National Security Advisor didn’t mince words, immediately calling into question the coherence of Trump’s current strategy, particularly regarding Ukraine. It’s pretty clear that Bolton believes Trump’s policy is a shambles, and he implied a sense of chaos and desperation surrounding the former president’s approach. This strong opening signaled the tone of his forthcoming remarks.
Bolton’s assessment suggested that Trump’s negotiations might be faltering, and that his ambition for a Nobel Peace Prize, which had been a talking point during his presidency, was now in serious jeopardy. This sentiment seemed to be a clear indication that Bolton believes Trump’s current situation is far more precarious than previously thought. The comments highlighted a potential unraveling of Trump’s carefully constructed image and perceived power.
It’s crucial to acknowledge the complex relationship many people have with Bolton. He served in the Trump administration, played a role in shaping policy, and then later became a vocal critic. Some people feel that his criticism rings hollow, given his previous actions. However, it’s also understandable to recognize and defend an individual’s right to free speech, even if their past actions are viewed unfavorably. The fact that Trump is using law enforcement to attack his opponents is illegal, unconstitutional, corrupt and wrong.
Trump, of course, weighed in on the situation, saying “My house was raided also,” referring to the FBI raid of his Mar-a-Lago compound in 2022. “So I know the feeling. It’s not a good feeling.” The use of these events to normalize the situation has people feeling very unsettled. To see that it is also serving as a warning to critics is just a double word score. These comments suggest a shared experience, but Bolton’s response highlights the fundamental differences between them, the actions taken by Trump, and Bolton’s opposition to the actions taken.
Many are also expressing the “Leopards eating my face” sentiment. The sentiment is aimed at Bolton who aided in the formation and empowerment of the actions that are currently being taken against him. Some are calling out Bolton’s actions and expressing that he deserves everything that is coming. It highlights the sense of irony and, perhaps, a degree of schadenfreude in this situation.
Bolton’s comments have also been criticized for the terminology that has been used, such as “slams” and “blasts”. Some feel that the term overstates the nature of the criticism. Despite any shortcomings, the core of Bolton’s statement is still very clear: he perceives Trump’s current strategy as a failure, and he doesn’t hold back in expressing that view.
Bolton’s comments also revealed a pointed assessment of the situation surrounding Trump and his own position within it. Specifically, he pointed out the absence of any realistic approach to the current situation and the lack of any future meetings regarding it. This seemed to indicate his belief that Trump’s current situation is even more precarious.
It’s a complex situation. One side is supporting Bolton’s right to speak his mind, and the other side has a certain amount of distain due to Bolton’s prior actions in contributing to the current situation. Regardless of the feelings of the public, this development marks a notable moment in the ongoing saga between Bolton and Trump, and it indicates that their relationship is far from over.