Rep. Don Bacon Slams Trump as ‘Disgusting’ Over Ukraine Remarks, Calls for New Leader

Nebraska Republican Representative Don Bacon publicly criticized President Donald Trump’s recent comments about the Ukraine conflict, describing Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine should get a new president as “disgusting.” Bacon voiced his disapproval on the social media platform X following Trump’s controversial statements outside the White House concerning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia’s war efforts.

Trump’s Controversial Ukraine Comments Spark Backlash

On Saturday, October 21, 2023, President Trump spoke to reporters about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent targeting of Russian diesel refiners. This followed a deal Trump made with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply over 300,000 tons of diesel. Trump accused Zelensky of wanting “to make problems for the world,” stating, “You’ve lost 30% of your country, and you’ve had over a million people killed… That’s a war that should have never started, and I think it’s time for Ukraine to get a new president.” These remarks triggered immediate backlash from various political figures, including Rep. Don Bacon.

Don Bacon’s Strong Response and Calls for Leadership Change

Bacon reposted a video of Trump’s comments on X with the caption, “We need a President who is up to the task of leading the Free World.” He followed up less than an hour later, tweeting, “Let’s be honest. Trump is and always has been weak on Putin.” He condemned Trump’s suggestion to discard Zelensky as “disgusting” and highlighted Trump’s declining popularity, noting, “It must really hurt seeing polls showing Americans have higher favorability towards Zelensky than they have Trump. You should honestly ask yourself why.” Bacon also criticized the White House’s so-called “Energy Ceasefire,” questioning, “What about Russia bombing buses, apartment buildings, hospitals, and gas stations?”

Advocating for Stronger Measures Against Russia

In addition to his criticisms, Rep. Bacon announced his support as an original co-sponsor of Pennsylvania Representative Brian Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act. This proposed legislation aims to block all purchases of Russian oil. Bacon emphasized the necessity for Congress to take a definitive stand against Russia’s actions in the ongoing conflict. His stance underscores a push within some Republican ranks for tougher policies on Russia despite President Trump’s more conciliatory approach.

Background on Rep. Don Bacon’s Career and Views

Don Bacon served in the United States Air Force for 29 years, earning distinctions including the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, two Legion of Merit awards, and two Bronze Star Medals. He first ran for Congress in 2016 and was re-elected in 2018, 2020, 2022, and 2024. Throughout his tenure, Bacon has been a member of the Committee on Armed Services and advocated for a stronger U.S. military presence in the Balkans to counter Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Known as a moderate Republican, he has previously opposed Trump’s policies on issues such as media bans and military actions. Bacon announced his retirement in June and will not seek re-election in the upcoming midterms.

With tensions escalating over Ukraine and Russia, Bacon’s vocal opposition to President Trump’s statements highlights divisions within the Republican Party on foreign policy and leadership. His call for new leadership and stronger congressional action reflects a growing demand for a more assertive U.S. stance amid the ongoing war.