This Week with George Stephanopoulos

Full Episode: Sunday,November 23, 2025

Nov 23, 2025
U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, a former intelligence official, discusses the security threats following President Trump's controversial posts and the implications for military orders. She emphasizes the need for transparency regarding U.S. military actions near Venezuela. Republican Rep. Michael McCaul shares insights on the complicated Ukraine proposal, urging flexibility in negotiations while addressing the significance of security guarantees. Both guests navigate the tense political landscape shaped by Trump's rhetoric and foreign policy decisions.
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INSIGHT

Top-Down Rhetoric Raises Real Threats

  • President Trump's social-media attacks labeled Democratic lawmakers "traitors" and called their actions seditious, escalating threats against them.
  • Senator Elissa Slotkin says leadership sets the climate and the president's words increased threats and security needs for those lawmakers.
ADVICE

Consult JAG Before Refusing Orders

  • If a service member doubts an order's legality, go to your JAG officer or local legal authority for guidance and cover.
  • Elissa Slotkin and colleagues advised using established legal channels rather than unilateral refusals.
ADVICE

Be Ready To Walk Away

  • Treat the current peace proposal as a negotiation starting point and be prepared to walk away from a bad deal.
  • Michael McCaul urged insisting on ironclad security guarantees before Ukraine signs anything.
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