By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Ohio Representative Mike Turner expressed concerns about the White House-backed peace plan for Ukraine, suggesting it may be too favorable to Russia and emphasizing the need to view Russia as a skeptical adversary. Turner, speaking on “Face the Nation,” highlighted that any peace arrangement must prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty, acknowledging comments made by Senator Marco Rubio in Miami. The plan has undergone revisions following initial criticism. Turner also expressed concern over reports suggesting a potential orchestration of communication, giving Russia preferential positioning prior to speaking with the President.
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Republican Rep. Mike Turner’s statement, “You Can’t Be America First and Pro-Russia,” hits the nail on the head, or at least it should. It’s a fundamental truth, a basic principle that seems to have gotten lost in the political shuffle for a while. It’s like saying you can’t be a chef and hate food, right? The two ideas are diametrically opposed. You either prioritize your own nation’s interests or you align yourself with a known adversary, one that has actively declared itself against the United States. It’s a simple choice, and it’s hard to believe anyone in a position of power would need it spelled out so plainly.
The reality, of course, is much murkier. We’ve seen, firsthand, how some figures in the Republican Party have flirted with, or even embraced, pro-Russia sentiments. The “America First” mantra, in some interpretations, seems to have morphed into “Trump First,” and that, unfortunately, has sometimes led to a willingness to overlook or excuse Russia’s actions, even its blatant aggression against a sovereign nation like Ukraine. It’s jarring to see this apparent contradiction. How can you claim to put America first while seemingly siding with a country that actively undermines American interests?
This statement comes at a critical time, as negotiators work tirelessly to find a way to end the devastating war in Ukraine. It’s a reminder that any peace plan, any agreement, must be based on clear principles, with no room for ambiguity. You can’t cozy up to Russia while simultaneously claiming to support Ukraine’s sovereignty or uphold American values. It’s a test of loyalty and priorities, a moment where political posturing needs to take a backseat to national interests and ethical considerations.
The context of this statement is vital. Reports indicate that Trump promised to end the war on day one but didn’t. During a phone call, Trump appeared to align himself with Putin and his goals. His actions, including downplaying the seriousness of the war and criticizing Ukraine’s leadership, have raised questions about his true intentions. It’s not enough to simply say you’re “America First” if your actions benefit a declared enemy. This has led to some questioning if “America First” is more like “Trump First”.
The rhetoric surrounding this whole situation has been particularly troubling. The constant denigration of Ukraine’s leaders, the implied criticism of NATO, and the parroting of Kremlin talking points all contributed to the weakening of our alliances. The suggestion that our European allies pose more of a threat than Russia is just absurd. This kind of talk emboldens bad actors and undermines the global order that is necessary for American security and prosperity. It’s about more than just political theater, it’s about real consequences.
Furthermore, Trump’s past actions, including his apparent willingness to negotiate deals that would have favored Putin, raise serious concerns. His past dealings with Putin show that he’s too incompetent, impatient, and reward-driven to actually bring about lasting peace in Ukraine. All of his actions in the past have empowered Putin. His actions, from defending Putin’s behavior to partnering with Russia on cybersecurity, show that he is willing to bend over backward to placate the Russian president.
The issue goes beyond just personalities and political games. It’s about recognizing the true nature of Putin’s ambitions. Putin is not a friend; he’s an aggressor. His goal is to expand Russia’s power, and he’s willing to use any means necessary to achieve that. The only “peace” he’s likely to accept is one that benefits him, even if that means sacrificing Ukraine’s sovereignty. Any agreement that allows Putin to retain territory or exert influence over Ukraine is not a true peace. It’s a strategic pause, a chance for him to regroup and prepare for the next round of aggression.
Ultimately, Rep. Turner’s words serve as a necessary, if belated, reminder of the core principles at stake. In the face of a dangerous adversary, there is no middle ground. You can’t be “America First” and pro-Russia. It’s a fundamental truth that should guide all decision-making, from the negotiating table to the halls of Congress. If the American public wants to ensure that America is put first, they need to push the elected officials in power to prioritize actions over rhetoric.