Scaramucci Warns Trump’s Proposed Summit With Putin and Xi Could End the GOP

Key points

• Anthony Scaramucci, a former communications director, stated on The Daily Beast Podcast that a summit between Trump, Putin, and Xi would mark the end of the Republican Party.
• Trump suggested a Yalta-style meeting in November without Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which alarmed Ukraine and its European allies.
• The Wall Street Journal reported that Putin plans to use the summit to negotiate a war ending that favors the Kremlin.
• Trump recently signed an executive order waiving key sanctions on Russia, a move linked to the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent Russia hawk.
• Scaramucci argued that participating in the summit would be a declaration of loyalty that Republicans could no longer ignore, potentially forcing Trump out of office.

Background

This warning comes amid a broader campaign blitz by Trump to support struggling Republican candidates in the midterms, despite polls showing his administration is unpopular. Recent controversies include a failed press secretary role and disputes over credit for a ceasefire with Ukraine, highlighting internal tensions within the administration and the party.

Why it matters

The potential summit signals a significant shift in US foreign policy, prioritizing relations with Russia and China over support for Ukraine. This move risks fracturing the Republican Party, as key figures like Lindsey Graham have opposed such rapprochement with Moscow. If the party breaks ranks, it could impact Trump's political future and the outcome of the midterms.

What to watch

The White House has not confirmed the summit, but Trump has expressed willingness to end the war in Ukraine regardless of who is present. If the meeting proceeds, it could trigger a major political crisis within the GOP, potentially leading to calls for Trump's resignation or a shift in party leadership.