Former Trump official and foreign policy expert, Elbridge Colby, is making waves with his outspoken criticism of the latest U.S. military aid package to Ukraine. Colby, who served as deputy assistant secretary of defense for strategy and force development under Trump, is now a key figure in the Republican party and is rumored to be in line for a senior role if the Republicans win the upcoming U.S. election.
Colby’s criticism stems from British Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s personal lobbying efforts in Congress to secure support for the aid package. Colby described Cameron’s actions as “foreign interference” and criticized him for moralizing to Americans despite his past decisions to cut British military spending and cozy up to China.
In contrast, Colby had encouraging words for Cameron’s counterpart, David Lammy, praising his focus on increasing defense spending and prioritizing a U.K. focus on Europe. Colby emphasized the need for action over rhetoric, signaling his support for Lammy’s approach.
The U.K. government and embassy in Washington have heavily invested in Cameron’s advocacy efforts, but Colby’s remarks reflect a growing frustration within some Republican circles over foreign influence in U.S. policy decisions. As the election approaches, Colby’s stance on foreign aid and defense spending could have significant implications for U.S.-U.K. relations and the future of transatlantic cooperation.