Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has issued a stark warning to Ukraine regarding potential peace negotiations with Russia, cautioning against concessions that could ultimately embolden Moscow and undermine long-term security. In an interview with “Der Spiegel”, Bolton argued that any agreement reached now would be temporary, predicting renewed Russian aggression within two to three years. He criticized what he perceives as a misunderstanding within the Trump camp – encompassing figures like Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner – regarding the strategic implications of such a deal, suggesting a willingness to accept terms regardless of the cost to Ukraine.
Bolton expressed particular alarm at indications that Ukraine might consider foregoing NATO membership in exchange for security guarantees. He branded such a proposition “an enormous mistake” questioning the reliability of any commitments made by a potential Trump administration, even regarding the foundational Article 5 of the NATO charter. “What security guarantees from Trump are worth, outside the NATO context? It’s an illusion of security” he stated.
He further voiced concerns that a ceasefire would disproportionately benefit Russia, allowing Putin to stabilize the economy and rebuild his military capabilities. Bolton suggested the Kremlin is actively attempting to manipulate Donald Trump, characterizing him as “what Lenin once called a ‘useful idiot'”. He accused Putin of leveraging techniques honed during his KGB training – identifying vulnerabilities and exploiting them to achieve strategic goals.
Bolton dismissed the recently released U.S. National Security Strategy as ineffective, speculating that Trump likely has not even read the document. He attributed its perceived shortcomings to influences resembling those of figures surrounding J.D. Vance, suggesting it represents a policy direction aligned with a potential Trump administration. He emphasized the need for European nations to “bite the bullet” and accept a strategic direction he finds questionable.
The commentary arrives amidst ongoing legal proceedings against Bolton, who is accused of mishandling classified documents. He characterized the investigation and subsequent charges as acts of political retribution orchestrated by Trump, echoing a prediction made in the preface to his book in 2020-that a re-elected Trump would preside over a presidency of revenge. Bolton recounted that the retaliation began immediately upon Trump’s inauguration, including the abrupt termination of protective detail previously granted by the Biden administration due to alleged Iranian assassination plots. He insists he is not alone in facing this targeted response. A long-standing critic of Trump’s foreign policy, Bolton served as National Security Advisor during Trump’s first term before his acrimonious departure after seventeen months.