McConnell criticizes Tucker Carlson for vilifying Ukraine aid

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) has criticized conservative commentator Tucker Carlson for his role in demonizing the idea of sending military aid to Ukraine. McConnell condemned Carlson for giving Russian President Vladimir Putin a platform during a fawning interview earlier this year, stating that Carlson ended up where he should have been all along.

In the two-hour interview with Putin, Carlson faced criticism for not challenging Putin’s dubious claims and declarations. Putin dominated the conversation, leaving little room for Carlson to ask questions. Afterward, Putin expressed disappointment that he didn’t face tougher questioning.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called the interview “ludicrous,” emphasizing the importance of not falling for Putin’s lies. Despite the backlash, Carlson defended the interview, stating that he can have any opinion he wants as an American citizen.

McConnell acknowledged Carlson’s influence on Republican views of the war in Ukraine, noting that Carlson’s criticism of U.S. involvement had a significant impact. Other senior Republicans have also expressed concern about Russian propaganda infiltrating conservative media and the party’s base.

House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner (R-Ohio) highlighted the presence of anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia messages in conservative media, including on the House floor. Carlson’s past comments, such as calling Ukrainian President Zelensky a dictator, have raised concerns about the spread of misinformation and pro-Russian sentiments within the Republican Party.