Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, one of the likely contenders for the 2024 White House race, has expressed his openness to reevaluating the United States’ membership in the United Nations (UN) and potentially pulling out of NATO. In an interview with Politico in Iowa, Ramaswamy responded to a recent Rolling Stones article that claimed former President Donald Trump had considered leaving NATO during his first term and was now contemplating maintaining a “standby” position in the military alliance.
While Ramaswamy acknowledged that the idea of reevaluating US involvement in the UN and NATO is reasonable, he stopped short of committing to it if elected. He emphasized the need for a clear plan and objectives for success in Gaza and a coherent strategy for the aftermath of toppling Hamas in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
The Republican candidate’s remarks come amidst a war of words between him and fellow GOP presidential rival Nikki Haley, who served as Trump’s ambassador to the United Nations. Haley, known for her more traditional stance on foreign policy, warns President Biden to be cautious following Hamas’ release of two American hostages and urges against falling for potential deception.
Ramaswamy, Haley, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are set to participate in the upcoming third GOP presidential debate in Miami on November 8. However, it is unlikely that Trump, who skipped the first two debates, will join.
Sources close to Trump have revealed that if reelected, he aims to avoid filling his next administration with “NATO lovers.” This statement aligns with his previous skepticism towards the alliance. Meanwhile, Ramaswamy has been actively advocating against President Biden’s proposed $106 billion aid package to Israel and Ukraine, urging members of Congress to vote against it until clear objectives and plans are established.
As the 2024 campaign trail progresses, Ramaswamy’s stance on reevaluating US involvement in international organizations and his vocal opposition to the aid package highlight the divisions within the Republican Party regarding foreign policy. The upcoming debate will provide an opportunity for candidates to further discuss their positions on these crucial matters.
About the Author:
Danielle Wallace is a reporter for Digital, specializing in politics, crime, and police coverage. She can be reached at [email protected] and followed on Twitter at @danimwallace. Stay informed with the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and more political content. Subscribe to receive regular newsletters delivering the latest news straight to your inbox.
