Richard Grenell defends Trump’s Zelenskyy ‘dictator’ comment: ‘American people are frustrated’
Richard Grenell, President Donald Trump’s special envoy for special missions, staunchly defended Trump’s recent criticism of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy as being a “dictator,” asserting that the president’s focus is on what is best for the American people.
Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Committee Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland, Grenell emphasized that Trump is prioritizing peace. He stated, “I’m so thankful that we have a president who’s concentrating on peace. And that’s what Donald Trump has just said: ‘You know, let’s stop.'” Grenell highlighted how Trump handed Joe Biden total peace in the Middle East and Europe, contrasting it with the wars that arose during Biden’s tenure.
Grenell, a former U.S. ambassador to Germany and Acting National Intelligence Director, addressed Trump’s labeling of Zelenskyy as a “dictator.” He defended this characterization by pointing out that when a leader rejects holding elections and fails to progress towards democracy, it can evoke frustration among the American people. Grenell asserted, “I think the American people are really frustrated with Zelenskyy. I think that there’s a big frustration that he’s not making great choices for peace.”
In response to questions about Trump’s stance on Ukraine, Grenell emphasized that Trump’s approach is distinct from traditional Republican foreign policy. He highlighted Trump’s commitment to avoiding regime change and prioritizing American interests above all. Grenell stressed, “Our criteria is not how do we make that country better [but] how do we make America better, stronger and more prosperous for the people that live here.”
Additionally, Grenell hinted at a potential political run in California, suggesting that he may challenge Vice President Kamala Harris if she decides to run for governor. He criticized Harris’s leadership and expressed a desire to offer Californians an alternative to the current administration. Grenell previously considered running for California governor during the 2021 recall vote against Gavin Newsom.
Moreover, Grenell criticized California’s response to recent wildfires, pledging that the Trump administration would attach conditions to future federal funding to prevent such disasters from recurring. He underscored the need for accountability and proactive measures to address environmental challenges in the state.
As a politics writer for Fox News Digital, Peter Pinedo covered Grenell’s statements at CPAC and highlighted the key points of Grenell’s speech. Grenell’s unwavering support for Trump’s foreign policy approach and his potential political aspirations in California underscored his commitment to advancing America’s interests and challenging ineffective leadership.
