ormer Vice President Mike Pence delivered a pointed critique of former President Donald Trump over his recent comments on American foreign policy, highlighting a continuing divide within the Republican Party over the United States’ role on the global stage.
The remarks came during Pence’s May 2025 appearance on Meet the Press, where he spoke with moderator Kristen Welker. Pence was responding to a speech Trump had given earlier in the month at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh.
In that address, Trump praised the rapid development and modernization of cities across the Gulf region, including Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. He credited local governments and citizens for building prosperous, modern societies without relying on Western intervention. Trump contrasted this success with U.S. involvement in countries such as Kabul and Baghdad, arguing that decades of American-led efforts had failed to produce lasting stability. He criticized “nation-builders” and interventionist policies, claiming that trillions of dollars had been spent with limited results and, in some cases, unintended consequences.
While Pence acknowledged that Trump’s broader Middle East trip—including stops in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates—brought economic and diplomatic benefits, he took issue with the tone and setting of the Riyadh speech. Pence emphasized that he believes American leaders should avoid criticizing their own country while speaking abroad, suggesting that such remarks can weaken the nation’s image and unity on the international stage.
More importantly, Pence objected to Trump’s characterization of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. He argued that reducing these efforts to mere “nation-building” overlooks the deeper purpose behind them and diminishes the sacrifices made by American service members. Referencing the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Pence defended the global war on terror as both a necessary and justified response to protect U.S. security and confront extremist threats.
Pence also pointed out the symbolic sensitivity of making such critical remarks in Saudi Arabia. He noted that a majority of the attackers involved in the 9/11 tragedy were Saudi nationals, adding an additional layer of complexity to delivering criticism of U.S. policy in that particular setting.
The exchange between the two former running mates reflects a broader ideological divide within the Republican Party. Trump’s “America First” approach prioritizes reducing long-term military commitments abroad and avoiding extensive nation-building projects. In contrast, Pence represents a more traditional conservative viewpoint that emphasizes strong American leadership, international engagement, and recognition of military sacrifice.
Ultimately, Pence’s measured but firm response illustrates that debates over foreign policy, interventionism, and America’s global responsibilities remain active within the GOP. Even years after their time in office, the differing perspectives of Trump and Pence continue to shape discussions about how the United States should navigate its role in an increasingly complex world.
