ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith shocked viewers by praising President Donald Trump’s bold moves to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine. His comments, aired on Fox News’ “Hannity,” signal a rare moment of cross-ideological admiration. Yet, in a world obsessed with partisan sniping, Smith’s nod to Trump’s diplomacy cuts through the noise like a well-aimed dart.
Smith lauded Trump for facilitating negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, spotlighting key meetings in August 2025, according to Fox News. Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on August 18 and Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier in Alaska. These efforts culminated in a planned bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy, a step toward de-escalation.
Smith’s appearance on “Hannity” on August 19 wasn’t just sports talk—it was a political curveball. He argued Trump’s diplomatic push shows a leader willing to tackle global conflicts with little to gain politically. Contrast that with the progressive crowd’s reflex to demonize every Trump move, and Smith’s take feels like a breath of fresh air.
Alaska Summit Sets Stage
Trump’s summit with Putin in Alaska on August 15 laid the groundwork for peace talks. During a joint press conference, Putin backed Trump’s claim that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine wouldn’t have happened under Trump’s watch. This bold statement, while controversial, underscores Trump’s knack for reshaping narratives.
Putin’s confirmation, “I can confirm that,” carries weight in a world skeptical of grand claims. Critics might scoff, but the Russian leader’s agreement suggests Trump’s influence isn’t just bluster. It’s a reminder that results matter more than the media’s endless spin cycle.
The Alaska meeting wasn’t a one-off; it set off a chain of diplomatic moves. European leaders joined Zelenskyy at the White House on August 17 to debrief Trump’s Putin talks. This rapid-fire diplomacy shows a president unafraid to dive into the geopolitical deep end.
White House Meetings Advance Talks
Zelenskyy’s Oval Office visit with Trump on August 18 was a pivotal moment. The meeting, focused on ending the war, showcased Trump’s hands-on approach to a conflict that’s bled both nations dry. While woke pundits might cry “photo op,” the stakes here are real lives, not clicks.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the next step on August 19: a Putin-Zelenskyy bilateral meeting. “President Trump spoke with President Putin by phone, and he agreed to begin the next phase of the peace process,” Leavitt said. This announcement proves Trump’s not just talking—he’s moving chess pieces.
Leavitt added that a trilateral meeting with Trump could follow if needed. This flexibility shows a pragmatic strategy, not the rigid posturing you’d expect from the usual D.C. crowd. It’s a masterclass in keeping options open while pushing for peace.
Smith’s Defense Stirs Debate
Smith’s praise wasn’t limited to “Hannity”; he doubled down on his podcast, “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” on August 18. He rejected claims that Trump caused the Russia-Ukraine war, pointing fingers at Biden, Obama, and Clinton instead. “We ain’t gonna act like he [Trump] caused this now,” Smith asserted, calling out Democratic failures.
Smith’s argument that past administrations fueled the war’s catalysts is a gut punch to the left’s narrative. It’s not about excusing Russia’s actions but recognizing that U.S. policy under Democrats didn’t exactly douse the flames. The progressive echo chamber might bristle, but facts don’t bend to feelings.
“It was Biden in office when a full-fledged war against Ukraine took place,” Smith said. His bluntness exposes the hypocrisy of blaming Trump for a war that escalated under Biden’s watch. It’s the kind of truth-telling that makes the woke crowd squirm.
Trump’s Risk, Little Reward
Smith highlighted Trump’s low political payoff for diving into this mess. “He has done more than practically almost any administration has tried to do,” Smith said, noting Trump’s willingness to engage despite minimal personal gain. In a culture addicted to self-interest, that’s a rare move worth respecting.
“His willingness to do so is something that shouldn’t be ignored,” Smith added. He’s right—Trump’s efforts deserve credit, not the usual knee-jerk dismissal from the left. When did diplomacy become a partisan sin?
Smith, eyeing a 2028 presidential run as a Democrat, isn’t just pandering to MAGA. His balanced take shows a man willing to call it like he sees it, even if it ruffles feathers. In a divided nation, that’s the kind of clarity we need more of.
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Author: Benjamin Clark
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