This Week with George Stephanopoulos Full Episode: Sunday, February 23, 2025
30 snips
Feb 23, 2025 Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican from New York’s 17th district, discusses the destabilizing impact of Trump’s firing of military officials, particularly on morale and foreign policy regarding Ukraine. Sen. Jack Reed, a senior senator from Rhode Island, highlights the complexities of U.S.-Ukraine relations and the geopolitical tensions involving Russia and China. They also touch on the need for unity in supporting Ukraine while navigating recent political changes and budget controversies regarding military reforms and efficiency.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Destabilizing Military Firings
- Firing senior military officials without cause is extremely destabilizing, especially during times of domestic and international tension.
- This action creates uncertainty within the ranks and raises concerns about the politicization of the military.
Civilian Control of Military
- The principle of civilian control over the military, established in 1787, ensures the military's subordination to elected civilian leaders.
- The military has respected this principle for over two centuries to protect democracy.
Politicization of Military
- The firings of military leaders raise concerns about the politicization of the military and the targeting of those who support diversity and inclusion.
- Punishing leaders for following lawful orders from a previous administration is problematic.