# Sir Malcolm Rifkind Criticizes Trump Over Ukraine Policy Shifts Former UK Foreign Secretary condemns Trump's alleged intelligence restrictions and diesel deal with Russia. - **Source:** [HuffPost UK - Athena2 - All Entries (Public)](https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk) - **Published:** 2026-10-18 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/63c4d8f1-2634-43c1-8cb9-d353d436f48e ## Severe Diplomatic Condemnation Sir Malcolm Rifkind, former UK Foreign Secretary under John Major, publicly labeled Donald Trump as repulsive and a disgrace. These harsh remarks follow allegations that the US president restricted Ukraine's access to the Starshield network. Rifkind argues these actions directly undermine international responsibilities and compromise the security of a nation currently fighting for existence. ## Intelligence Access Restrictions Reports indicate that Trump limited Kyiv’s access to critical American intelligence during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Rifkind explicitly links this decision to the deaths of numerous Ukrainians who relied on US-provided data for protection. By withholding these assets, the administration has effectively altered the operational landscape for Ukrainian defense forces on the ground. ## Sanctions-Busting Diesel Deal Beyond intelligence limitations, Trump reportedly negotiated a deal to purchase Russian diesel, bypassing existing sanctions. Critics suggest this move aims to lower domestic fuel prices for American motorists before the upcoming midterm elections. The strategy prioritizes short-term political relief over the broader geopolitical objective of maintaining international pressure on the Russian energy sector. ## Domestic Political Motivations The timing of these policy shifts coincides with expectations that the Republican Party faces significant losses in the next month's midterm elections. Rifkind describes the diesel deal as a grubby attempt to secure votes by manipulating pump prices. This interpretation frames the administration's foreign policy as a tool for domestic electoral survival rather than strategic alignment. ## Zelenskyy and Putin Dynamics Tensions have escalated further as Trump publicly called for the replacement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This rhetoric contrasts sharply with his willingness to engage in energy deals with Vladimir Putin. Such public positioning complicates the diplomatic relationship between Washington and Kyiv, creating uncertainty regarding future US support for the Ukrainian government's survival. ## Historical Context of Criticism Rifkind’s critique is part of a broader wave of disapproval from former UK officials regarding the current US stance on the war. Former UK Defence Secretaries have also voiced concerns that Trump’s actions signal a desire for a Russian victory. These statements highlight a growing rift between traditional Western allies regarding the management of the conflict. ## Operational Impact on Ukraine The restriction of the Starshield network represents a tangible degradation of Ukraine's defensive capabilities against Russian attacks. By limiting intelligence sharing, the US has removed a layer of protection that was previously instrumental in identifying threats. This shift forces Ukrainian commanders to adapt their strategies without the benefit of high-level American surveillance data. ## Implications for Global Alliances The ongoing controversy underscores the fragility of international coalitions when domestic political cycles dictate foreign policy. Rifkind’s assessment serves as a warning about the potential long-term damage to US international credibility. Observers must now watch how these policy maneuvers influence future cooperation between the UK and the US on critical global security matters. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/former-foreign-secretary-slams-trump_uk_6ad47d6be4b00caf853ca9ce — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._