Speaker Johnson Backs Trump On Ukraine

During a weekend interview, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) stood up for President Donald Trump amid the recent controversy involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office. Appearing on CNN’s “State of the Union” with Dana Bash on Sunday, Johnson responded to questions about whether an “America First” approach meant abandoning support for democracies facing authoritarian threats.

Johnson rejected that notion, explaining, “America First encompasses everything the term suggests. I’ve always identified as a Reagan Republican, embracing his belief that, post-World War II, the U.S. took on a unique role as the world’s last major superpower. Maintaining that position is critical.”

He went on to emphasize that strength at home is key to global influence. “Peace comes through strength—that’s a Reagan principle Trump is reviving,” Johnson said. “His firm leadership has returned to the White House at a crucial moment internationally.”

Commenting on the Zelensky incident, Johnson called the Ukrainian leader’s actions “out of line,” arguing they derailed a potentially beneficial arrangement. “The mineral rights deal could’ve been advantageous for both nations,” he noted. “It would’ve tied our economic interests to Ukraine’s, signaling to the world that the U.S. stands by its commitments, while fostering a partnership as Ukraine rebuilds.”

Johnson was blunt about Russia and its leader, Vladimir Putin, labeling them the aggressors in an “unprovoked conflict.” He described Putin as “an old-style communist and ex-KGB operative—untrustworthy and a real threat.” He framed global tensions broadly, saying, “China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea form a new axis of powers opposed to American interests. We must tread carefully in these volatile times.”