Obama Says White House Is Bending to Putin and Selling Out Ukrainians
Obama accused the Trump White House of "bending the knee" to Vladimir Putin and "selling out Ukrainians" fighting for freedom and democracy, at a Georgia rally ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms.
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Former U.S. President Barack Obama accused the Trump White House of bending the knee to Russian President Vladimir Putin and selling out Ukraine, sharpening his attack on the administration's foreign policy days before the U.S. midterm elections.
Speaking at a Democratic campaign rally in suburban Atlanta on Wednesday, Obama said the administration was alienating key U.S. allies while taking a deferential approach toward Moscow.
"And while we're alienating key allies like Canada, the White House is bending the knee to Vladimir Putin of Russia and selling out Ukrainians, who are fighting for their freedom and democracy."
The remarks drew boos from the audience, prompting Obama to respond: "Do not boo, vote!"
Obama Targets White House Over Russia and Ukraine
The criticism came as Washington continues efforts to broker a settlement in Ukraine. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin in St. Petersburg on October 21, a day after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Norway.
In the passage, Obama did not cite a specific bill or diplomatic proposal. He tied his criticism of the White House's Russia policy to its treatment of traditional partners, singling out Canada.
He also mocked the administration's tariff disputes, referring to maple syrup and the actor Martin Short as he criticized tensions with Ottawa.
Trump has pursued direct contacts with Moscow, including a call with Putin and Zelensky aimed at reviving stalled talks, and a 2025 summit in Alaska that sought a ceasefire.
Wider Criticism of Trump's Policies
Obama's remarks on Ukraine formed part of a broader attack on the administration's record.
He called the war with Iran unnecessary and blamed it for rising oil and diesel prices. He also targeted U.S. tariffs, the national debt and the Defense Secretary, and criticized the president's White House renovation projects.
"These are not serious people, and we're all paying the price for their lack of seriousness," he said.
Georgia Rally Ahead of November 3 Midterms
Obama spoke at the Discovery Center of Clayton County, south of Atlanta, on October 28. The Guardian reported that between 3,500 and 4,000 people attended.
He was campaigning for Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff, who is seeking re-election, and Keisha Lance Bottoms, the party's candidate for Georgia governor.
Obama urged supporters to vote and noted that Friday, October 30, is the deadline for early in-person voting.
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