WASHINGTON — Retiring U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) expressed hope for democratic values globally but voiced “major concerns” about the incoming Trump administration’s foreign policy during a Thursday briefing with reporters. The chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations reflected on his nearly two decades in the Senate as Republicans prepare to take control. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) will become the committee’s ranking member in January.
Cardin assumed the chairmanship in September 2023 following Senator Bob Menendez’s (D-NJ) conviction on federal bribery charges. Reflecting on the past four years, Cardin stated that the U.S. had led in “the defense of democratic institutions” and encouraged alliances with the West. He contrasted the Biden administration’s efforts favorably with what he described as a question mark under a Trump administration. This briefing took place in the committee’s meeting room, a space where photography is prohibited and Cardin regularly held informal press sessions.
He highlighted the significant risk posed by the informal alliance between China, North Korea, Iran, and Russia. Cardin directly challenged President-elect Trump’s campaign promise to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours, stating that such a claim was unrealistic. He emphasized the need to prevent Russia from achieving victory, as this would not end the conflict but merely shift the conflict to other areas. He reiterated his support for a security agreement upholding Ukraine’s borders.
Cardin expressed hope that his Republican colleagues would not cut off monetary and weapons aid to Ukraine, despite the outspoken opposition from Trump’s vice president-elect, Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH). He noted that while Democrats largely united on this issue, a significant number of Republicans also supported continued aid, suggesting a potential congressional majority for continued support.
Cardin, a strong advocate for Israel, will soon cede his top Democratic spot on the Foreign Relations Committee. He commented on the Senate vote to halt some arms shipments to Israel, stating that while there was frustration over the Gaza conflict’s death toll, the vote was, in his view, the wrong approach. He reaffirmed Israel’s importance as a reliable partner and highlighted the international community’s singling out of Israel, citing antisemitism. He acknowledged the possibility of disagreeing with Prime Minister Netanyahu while still supporting Israel.
Regarding a potential ceasefire in Gaza, Cardin expressed hope for Netanyahu’s sincerity but limited confidence in Hamas’s cooperation. He noted receiving previous reports of positive signs towards a ceasefire, but remained cautious until concrete results were seen.
At 81, Cardin said he hasn’t decided on his post-retirement plans, expressing pride in his six decades of public service. He mentioned upcoming legislation, including a bill to end preferential treatment for Hong Kong, and his continued commitment to human rights advocacy, exemplified by his recent efforts to highlight the detainment of Azerbaijani activist Rufat Safarov. He also expressed a continued passion for Chesapeake Bay and environmental issues.