Kathrine Frich
He contradicted Donald Trump’s views on Russia.
He contradicted Donald Trump’s views on Russia.
Contradicted Donald Trump
The President, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine contradicted Donald Trump’s views on Russia, warning that Vladimir Putin is likely to go beyond Ukraine.
The high-stakes exchange unfolded during a Senate hearing, sending shockwaves through Washington.
“No, Sir, I Don’t Believe He Will Stop”
Pressed by Senator Lindsey Graham on whether Putin would halt his military ambitions at Ukraine’s borders, General Caine responded bluntly:
“No, sir. I don’t believe he will.”
The comment stood in stark contrast to Trump’s ongoing downplaying of Russia’s threat to NATO and Eastern Europe.
A General vs. the Commander-in-Chief
The clash is notable not just for its substance but its symbolism:
Caine is the top-ranking military officer in the U.S., expected to offer unvarnished advice to the President, Congress, and Defense Secretary, even when it directly opposes the administration’s political messaging.
Protesters Are “Foreign Invaders”
Earlier in the week, Trump described U.S. protestors opposing his immigration policies as “agents of a foreign invasion.”
When asked about this claim, Caine made clear he did not agree, signaling discomfort with the rhetoric coming from the Oval Office.
Trump Allies Play It Cautious, but Caine Doesn’t Blink
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, seated next to Caine during the hearing, avoided directly endorsing or rejecting Trump’s claims.
But Caine’s clear-eyed assessment drew praise from both sides of the aisle, with moderate Republicans and Democrats lauding his honesty.
“Putin’s Intentions Are No Secret”
Senator Graham compared Putin to Adolf Hitler in the 1930s, warning that ignoring Putin’s open declarations of aggression would be disastrous.
“He’s telling us what he wants to do,” Graham said. “Let’s not pretend it’s unclear.”
Trump’s Peace Promises Fall Flat
Despite promising to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office, Trump’s administration has made little visible progress.
A U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire has so far been rejected outright by Moscow.