In a candid conversation at the Munich Security Conference, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi did not mince words when it came to discussing former President Donald Trump. Known for its high-level diplomatic dialogues, this year’s conference saw Pelosi openly criticizing Trump, whom she described as “grotesque,” signaling a strong aversion to the former president’s actions and rhetoric.
During the exclusive interview, Pelosi’s frustration was palpable as she addressed the undue attention Trump continues to command, particularly in the context of significant global issues discussed at the conference. These included Trump’s controversial remarks about NATO, the impasse over the aid package for Ukraine, and the tragic demise of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, all of which cast long shadows over the proceedings.
“I think we spend too much time on him,” she said during an interview in the Hotel Bayerischer Hof suite transformed into the weekend hub for the large U.S. delegation dispatched to Germany.
“I’m very proud of Joe Biden,” Pelosi said, having this week defended the president as “very sharp” and “always on the ball.”
Pelosi, part of a prominent U.S. delegation alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, took the opportunity to reassure international allies rattled by the thought of Trump’s potential re-election. With a firm resolve, she stated, “It’s not going to happen,” reflecting her determination to thwart any possibility of Trump reclaiming the presidency.
The pushback from Trump’s camp was swift, with campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung questioning Pelosi’s engagement with current political realities. As the specter of the 2024 presidential election looms, Pelosi framed the upcoming contest as a critical juncture for American democracy, one that could not entertain the prospect of Trump’s return.
Pelosi didn’t hold back in her critique, labeling Trump as “despicable” and raising concerns over his age and fitness for office, especially in contrast to President Joe Biden, whom she praised for his acuity. She highlighted the stark implications of a Trump presidency, touching on international relations, reproductive rights, and the rights of marginalized groups.
In her appeal to the American public, Pelosi underscored the importance of scrutinizing Trump’s interactions with global leaders and the overarching need to protect democratic values.
The conference also delved into the urgent matter of Ukraine, with Pelosi expressing apprehension over the U.S. potentially reverting to isolationism under Trump’s influence. She stressed the critical need to back democracy in Ukraine, especially in light of Navalny’s death, which she hoped would catalyze a stronger international stance against Russian aggression.
Pelosi’s condemnation of Russian President Vladimir Putin was unequivocal, branding him as profoundly malevolent and advocating for sustained sanctions and democratic support in the face of Russian hostilities.
Amidst discussions on the challenges to sovereignty and rules-based order, Pelosi conveyed a sense of optimism about the resilience and commitment of America’s NATO allies. Despite previous concerns over financial contributions and contentious statements, she witnessed a collective will among the allies to tackle global issues head-on, reinforcing the importance of unity and cooperation in navigating the complex landscape of international relations.
