Tulsi Gabbard/ Trump intelligence pick/ pro-Russia comments/ U.S. national security/ intelligence sharing/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Trump’s choice for director of national intelligence, is under scrutiny for past comments sympathetic to Russia’s claims about Ukraine and her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar Assad. Critics warn her appointment could undermine U.S. security and intelligence alliances, while some Republicans defend her patriotism and military service.
Gabbard’s Russia Sympathies Spark Debate Over Trump’s Intelligence Pick
Key Points:
- Pro-Russia Comments: Tulsi Gabbard echoed Russian propaganda in 2022, raising questions about her stance as a Trump Cabinet nominee.
- Criticism Across Aisles: Lawmakers and national security experts fear Gabbard’s appointment could harm U.S. intelligence-sharing alliances.
- Support and Scrutiny: While some Republicans back Gabbard for her military service, allies and critics alike express doubts about her loyalty.
Tulsi Gabbard’s Russia Ties Raise Alarms as Trump’s Intelligence Pick
Deep Look: Gabbard’s Stance on Russia Raises Concerns Over Intelligence Role
President-elect Donald Trump’s choice of Tulsi Gabbard to lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) has ignited a storm of criticism, given her controversial remarks and past actions.
Russia and Ukraine Controversy
In 2022, Gabbard echoed Kremlin claims about U.S.-funded biolabs in Ukraine, insinuating they could pose a biological threat to Russia. The statements mirrored Russian President Vladimir Putin’s justification for invading Ukraine. These labs, however, are part of an international disease prevention program, not a weapons initiative.
Gabbard later clarified she wasn’t accusing the U.S. of wrongdoing but insisted the labs needed better safeguards. Critics, however, argue her comments lent credibility to Russian propaganda.
“She has a troubling track record of parroting Russian disinformation,” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., who opposes Gabbard’s nomination.
A History of Diplomatic Controversy
Gabbard’s 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar Assad also remains a flashpoint. Assad, a close ally of Russia and Iran, has been accused of war crimes, including chemical attacks on civilians. Gabbard defended her meeting, stating it was part of an effort to pursue peace. Critics, including fellow Democrats, viewed it as legitimizing a brutal regime.
“Do you really want her to have access to America’s most sensitive intelligence?” Warren asked.
Trump’s Focus on Loyalty
Gabbard is part of a slate of unconventional appointments emphasizing loyalty to Trump over traditional credentials. As a former Democratic congresswoman turned independent, she endorsed Joe Biden in 2020 but later broke with the Democratic Party, calling its members “elitist warmongers.”
Gabbard’s military background—20 years in the Army National Guard, including deployments to Iraq and Kuwait—has bolstered her credibility among some Republicans.
Wider Implications for U.S. Security
Gabbard’s nomination has caused ripples beyond U.S. borders. Allies, particularly in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group, worry her leadership could strain trust. Thomas Juneau, a former strategic analyst with Canada’s Department of National Defence, warned Gabbard’s appointment could lead to selective intelligence sharing, undermining long-standing partnerships.
Looking Ahead
Gabbard’s confirmation process is expected to be contentious. While Trump allies praise her unconventional approach, critics from both parties warn her leadership could embolden U.S. adversaries and alienate allies. As debates continue, Gabbard’s views and past statements will remain central to whether she assumes one of the nation’s most sensitive roles.
