Here are the main points from each candidate's statements:
Donald Trump's Position:
- Trump reiterated that under his presidency, Russia would not have invaded Ukraine, citing his personal relationship with Vladimir Putin as a deterrent.
- He claimed that Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine was a result of Joe Biden's administration and its incompetence.
- Trump expressed a desire to end the war quickly, claiming he could bring both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to negotiations, suggesting that both leaders respect him.
- When asked if he wanted Ukraine to win the war, Trump avoided directly answering, instead emphasizing the need to stop the war and save lives.
- Trump suggested that Europe should bear more of the burden in supporting Ukraine, as they have more at stake in the conflict.
Kamala Harris's Position:
- Harris accused Trump of being manipulated by dictators, including Putin, and suggested that Trump’s admiration for authoritarian leaders weakens U.S. national security.
- She argued that Trump's so-called peace plan would likely end with the U.S. abandoning Ukraine.
- Harris emphasized that it was the U.S., under the Biden administration, that successfully united 50 countries to support Ukraine, providing key military aid that has enabled Ukraine to continue its defense.
- Harris suggested that under Trump, Ukraine would have already fallen to Russian occupation, with Putin potentially controlling Kyiv.
- She highlighted the importance of NATO and the U.S.'s role as a global leader in upholding international rules and norms.
In summary, Trump focused on his ability to personally negotiate an end to the war, while Harris criticized Trump’s past relationships with authoritarian leaders and defended the Biden administration's role in rallying international support for Ukraine.
