After U.S. Diplomatic Staff Drastically Cut In Russia, Trump Thanks Putin

We’re trying to cut payroll.

In a response to the new sanctions bill passed against Russia and signed by President Trump, Russian President Putin ordered that the U.S. cut its diplomatic staff in the nation by 755 people.

What was President Trump’s response, when asked about the unusual move?

He thanked Putin.

“I want to thank him because we’re trying to cut down our payroll and as far as I’m concerned I’m very thankful that he let go of a large number of people because now we have a smaller payroll,” Trump told reporters at his Bedminster, N.J. golf club.

“There’s no real reason for them to go back. I greatly appreciate the fact that we’ve been able to cut our payroll of the United States,” he continued. “We’re going to save a lot of money.”

The comments caught the ear of former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul, and he was not happy.

In fact, McFaul took to Twitter to tweet-rage against Trump’s comments.

Trump just applauded cuts of 755 in Russian embassy. Maybe he should look to trim his own staff? https://t.co/KKF0tP0PL2

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

You realize Mr. President that the State Dept organizes US delegations to GES — those same people you just said were not needed in Russia. https://t.co/wCGRJrkcO0

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

That @realDonaldTrump praised Putin today for cutting 755 people from our embassy in Russia shows that he doesn’t understand diplomacy.

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

Our diplomats, professional staff, and military serving in Russia provide Washington with invaluable information about Russia. https://t.co/6XHtSZkSWm

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

Imagine wanting to know less about Russia’s military modernization! That’s what Trump praised today. https://t.co/qMorkknjhU

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

Imagine wanting to know less about Russian foreign policy intentions and plans ! That’s what embassy personnel reductions will do. https://t.co/O1XP5Upyr5

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

Imagine wanting to have less capability to gather data about dangerous transnational diseases originating in Russia!Trump seems to want that https://t.co/xTVOkVohre

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

Imagine dissing Americans –patriots serving our country under difficult conditions in Russia -to praise Putin. Our president did today. https://t.co/KovoLuMISa

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) August 10, 2017

Good points. Don’t be surprised or disappointed to find all that is lost on Trump.
This was another off-the-cuff remark by Trump, showing his lack of understanding about his job.

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