Guests Philip Patrick, a precious metals expert, and political commentator Ben Harnwell delve into the shifting American sentiments towards Ukraine, emphasizing a growing call for disengagement and negotiated peace. Julie Kelly offers legal insights on high-profile cases involving President Trump and Elon Musk. The trio also discusses economic turmoil, focusing on the Bank of England's gold delivery crisis and predicting a potential depression by 2030, tying it all back to the importance of gold as a financial safeguard.
U.S. public support for Ukraine has significantly shifted, with a majority now viewing current assistance levels as excessive amid changing political sentiments.
Confidence in Ukrainian President Zelensky has declined notably since 2022, leading to increased skepticism about his leadership and bipartisan support over international affairs.
Deep dives
Shifts in U.S. Support for Ukraine
U.S. support for Ukraine has drastically changed since the war began in February 2022, rising from only 7% to 41% by February 2025. Interestingly, a significant majority of Republicans, 62%, believe that the current level of U.S. support is excessive. This shift is reflective of broader trends in public opinion, as American enthusiasm represented by the numerous Ukrainian flags seen in the past is now noticeably diminished. The political landscape has evolved, highlighting how domestic sentiments about foreign involvement can shift dramatically over a short period.
Declining Confidence in Zelensky
Confidence in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also seen a striking decline among Americans. While 72% of the public expressed confidence in him back in 2022, this number plummeted to 48% by 2024. Among Republicans, the drop is even more significant, indicating a growing skepticism about his leadership regarding international affairs. This change may be influenced by political narratives and criticism directed at Zelensky, leading to a decrease in bipartisan support.
Desire for a Negotiated Peace Deal
A significant majority of Americans, approximately 78%, express support for a Russia-Ukraine negotiated peace deal. However, this support raises questions about how intentions align with the realities of the ongoing conflict, especially since Ukrainians are not currently participating in talks. Polling about peace generally garners high approval, but the particulars of what a peace agreement entails can alter public sentiment. The distinction between abstract support for peace and practical acceptance of outcomes that sideline Ukraine is crucial and remains ambiguous.
European Responsibilities and Funding Concerns
European leaders are facing mounting pressure to take on more responsibility for military support in Ukraine, especially as the U.S. signals a potential withdrawal of financial backing. As President Trump’s administration suggests reduced involvement, European nations are reevaluating their defense positions and funding strategies. Discussions in Europe about emergency funding mechanisms, such as potential constitutional changes to enable borrowing for military expenditures, reflect deep-seated apprehensions about maintaining support for Ukraine amidst economic uncertainties. The situation calls for a reevaluation of how European nations can provide their own security without relying heavily on external support from the U.S.