In a striking moment of bipartisan acknowledgment on Fox News’ The Five, former Democratic Rep. Harold Ford Jr. surprised viewers by delivering unusually strong praise for President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts in the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Ford, who represented Tennessee until 2007, said Trump deserves “tremendous credit” for his recent peace initiatives and even floated the idea that the former president could be worthy of a Nobel Peace Prize.
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During the panel discussion, Ford emphasized that Trump’s attempts to broker a ceasefire should not be minimized. “I give President Trump tremendous credit for where we are,” he said, adding that if Trump successfully negotiates a peace agreement, he would “absolutely deserve” recognition of the highest order.
Ford doubled down on his position, repeating that if Trump manages to “engineer this deal,” he would fully support awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize. His remarks stood out sharply from the comments typically heard from Democratic circles, where Trump’s foreign policy actions are often met with skepticism or criticism.
The conversation unfolded as the panel analyzed Trump’s high-profile diplomatic meetings, including his recent direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Ford dismissed concerns about Trump engaging one-on-one with Putin, arguing that the stakes of the conflict justify bold diplomatic moves.
He warned that Russia’s ambition in the war could be disastrous for global security. Ford emphasized the gravity with a vivid comparison: reports that Russia wants up to 30 percent of Ukraine’s territory, he said, would be like a foreign power demanding “30 percent of America — and Miami.”
Trump has ramped up his involvement in the crisis, holding in-person meetings with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These discussions were followed by a broader summit at the White House with European leaders, signaling an intensified U.S. push to find a settlement to the nearly three-year-old conflict.
According to multiple reports, Trump is now laying the groundwork for a three-way summit involving himself, Putin, and Zelenskyy. Such talks would represent the most direct attempt yet under his administration to craft the foundation for serious negotiations.
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International leaders are taking note. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who joined the recent Washington talks, described them as “good and constructive,” suggesting that Trump’s diplomatic overtures are being taken seriously by America’s closest allies.
Behind the scenes, U.S. officials and partner nations are drafting long-term security proposals for Ukraine. These plans may include enhanced air defenses, increased intelligence cooperation, and a multinational “coalition of the willing” to help deter future Russian aggression without requiring U.S. troops on the ground.
Trump, for his part, has made his expectations unmistakable. At the Alaska summit, he demanded an immediate ceasefire and warned that without progress, sweeping economic sanctions would be launched against Russia. NATO strategists are already preparing post-war stabilization measures to ensure Ukraine’s security if a deal can be struck.
Ford’s comments on the Nobel Peace Prize underscored just how consequential Trump’s diplomatic gamble could be. By praising a political rival so openly, Ford signaled that even some Democrats recognize the significance of what Trump is attempting. For Trump, the outcome of this diplomatic push could shape not only the future of Ukraine but also the legacy he leaves on the world stage.[/read]