In a recent interview with CNN’s Kate Bolduan, former Vice President Mike Pence shared his evolving views on the current state of international policy under former President Donald Trump. Pence remarked on the diminishing influence of isolationist sentiments within Trump’s administration, particularly regarding its stance on Russia and military support for Ukraine.
Pence’s relationship with Trump has had its ups and downs, particularly following the 2020 election. While he has previously expressed criticism of Trump’s approach to foreign relations, he admitted to welcoming Trump’s recent actions, including a tougher posture toward Russian President Vladimir Putin and a decision to resume certain military aid to Ukraine. “I hope he is starting to recognize,” Pence stated, emphasizing the necessity for a firmer approach in light of Putin’s intentions for the Ukraine conflict.
Highlighting the significance of Trump’s decision to reverse a previous pause on arms shipments to Ukraine, which included air defense missiles, Pence described it as a positive shift. “While I had concerns… I welcome his decisions this week and his rhetoric,” he said, indicating a growing alignment with Trump’s foreign policy adjustments.
Pence further examined how Trump’s criticisms of Putin might indicate a shift away from the isolationist voices that have emerged in response to U.S. military actions abroad. He pointed out that after some administration members criticized Trump’s foreign policy following military interventions in places like Iran, those isolationist perspectives may be losing traction within the White House. “I think they may have lost some of their footing,” Pence remarked on the influence of these voices.
Beyond just supporting military aid to Ukraine, Pence called on Trump to provide more offensive capabilities, urging for expanded military support to ensure Ukraine has the means to defend itself effectively. Additionally, he appealed to Senate Majority Leader John Thune to prioritize a bipartisan bill aimed at sanctioning Russia, suggesting that this legislative action could lend further weight to Trump’s stance against Putin.
Moving to domestic policy, Pence weighed in on issues surrounding emergency management after severe flooding in Texas. While Kristi Noem, Trump’s homeland security secretary, advocated for eliminating FEMA, Pence took a more balanced position. He acknowledged the importance of state-level disaster response but defended FEMA’s role as a crucial support mechanism. “FEMA provides a backstop of expertise and personnel,” he argued, underscoring the federal agency’s importance in disaster recovery efforts.
Pence has also been vocal about his long-standing opposition to tariffs, advocating for Congress to step in and reclaim its authority over trade policies. He expressed concern over Trump’s tariff measures, arguing that they stray from the principles of separation of powers and could have lasting economic impacts. “I think it’s absolutely important that Congress essentially reclaim… its control over setting industrial policy,” he stated, highlighting the need for legislative oversight in this area.
Despite these critiques, Pence acknowledged the significance of Trump’s recent policy achievements, such as the extension of the 2017 tax cuts and reforms to Medicaid. He believes that showcasing these accomplishments will resonate with voters in the upcoming midterm elections. “I think that, combined with telling the story about how they extended those tax cuts… is a winning message in 2026 and beyond,” he concluded, leaning into a hopeful narrative for the Republican party.
