We just learned that Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) is in a battle against brain cancer. Yet, he's not letting that stop him from still speaking his mind on foreign policy. Reports suggest that President Trump has ended a CIA program to arm and train anti-Assad rebels in Syria. The senator said that is unacceptable and used it to suggest the Trump administration has yet to offer a comprehensive plan on Syria. He also predicted that Russia will be huge fans of this development, since they want to see Bashar al-Assad remain in power.
McCain's full statement was released on his official website.
“If these reports are true, the administration is playing right into the hands of Vladimir Putin. Making any concession to Russia, absent a broader strategy for Syria, is irresponsible and short-sighted. The administration has yet to articulate its vision for Syria beyond the defeat of ISIL, let alone a comprehensive approach to the Middle East. A key pillar of American strategy must be the removal of Assad from power as part of an end to the brutal conflict in Syria, which has fueled ISIL’s growth through its cruelty, extended malign Iranian influence, and undermined broader regional stability. Six months into this administration, there is still no new strategy for victory in Afghanistan either. It is now mid-July, when the administration promised to deliver that strategy to Congress, and we are still waiting.”
McCain may disagree with the president and some of his colleagues in Congress, but everyone, regardless of party, was quick to offer thoughts and prayers to the senator. Even former opponents like President Obama sent their well wishes to him in light of his diagnosis.
Never fear, McCain tweeted Thursday, warning that he'll soon be back in debate mode.
I greatly appreciate the outpouring of support - unfortunately for my sparring partners in Congress, I'll be back soon, so stand-by!
— John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) July 20, 2017