Ex-FBI official warns of Trump’s unusual admiration for Putin

Former FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe expressed concerns about Donald Trump's relationship with Vladimir Putin, suggesting that Trump's admiration for the Russian leader is unprecedented among U.S. presidents. McCabe indicated that Trump's comments and behavior towards Putin raise serious questions about his approach to Russia and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. He noted that Trump's past claims about his relationship with Putin, including assertions that Putin would not have invaded Ukraine if he were president, further complicate the narrative. McCabe's remarks came during a podcast interview where he was asked if Trump could be considered a Russian asset. He acknowledged the possibility, stating that while he does not believe Trump is an actively recruited asset, his actions warrant scrutiny. The former FBI official highlighted Trump's reluctance to support Ukraine against Russian aggression and his ambiguous stance on NATO, suggesting a troubling pattern of behavior. The context of these comments is rooted in Trump's presidency, which was overshadowed by investigations into his campaign's ties to Russia. Although the Mueller Inquiry found no conspiracy between Trump's campaign and Russian officials, it did reveal numerous contacts. McCabe's concerns extend to the potential for unrest in the U.S. if Trump loses the upcoming election, reflecting a broader anxiety about political stability. Overall, McCabe's insights underscore the complexities of Trump's foreign policy and its potential ramifications for U.S. national security, particularly in relation to Russia and its actions on the global stage.