Interview with Sen. Jeanne Shaheen on 'Face the Nation', April 27, 2025

Margaret Brennan hosts a discussion with Senator Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire. They delve into the topic of potential sanctions against Russia and legislative action surrounding it.

Discussion on Russian Sanctions

Margaret Brennan began by asking Senator Shaheen about President Trump's recent comments on possible sanctions against Russia, noting that Senator Lindsey Graham has garnered significant support for a sanctions bill. Despite this momentum, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov has downplayed the impact of sanctions, claiming Russia's economy can withstand them. Brennan inquired whether these measures could indeed influence Russia.

Senator Shaheen emphasized the necessity of enacting the legislation proposed by Graham, advocating for widespread legislative support to impose secondary sanctions on Russia. She described Lavrov as skilled in evasive dialogue, highlighting his consistent denial of Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine, including attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility and the abductions of Ukrainian children.

Senate, Sanctions, and Executive Power

Margaret Brennan then steered the conversation towards how feasible it is to pass this sanctions bill without veto from President Trump. Senator Shaheen expressed confidence, noting active collaboration with the administration on such legislation as Putin prolongs territorial conflicts in Ukraine.

State Department Restructuring Concerns

Senator Shaheen shared her concerns about planned changes at the State Department under Secretary of State Rubio's oversight. The reorganization includes significant staff reductions and potential removal of the Office of Global Women's Issues. Shaheen argued for congressional consultation, stressing the integral role of this office in stabilizing international relations through empowered women.

Brennan pointed out that the president’s daughter, Ivanka Trump, had supported this office, highlighting Shaheen's previous collaborative efforts with her.

Challenges in the Pentagon's Leadership

Addressing the situation at the Pentagon, Brennan questioned Shaheen about the recent instability, characterized by numerous resignations and dismissals of senior appointees. Shaheen voiced significant concerns about the unrest within the Pentagon, attributing it to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's lack of qualifications and inappropriate sharing of classified information. She criticized the leadership vacuum this has left at a critical juncture.

Tariff Concerns and Defense Supply Chain

On a different note, Senator Shaheen pointed out how tariffs are adversely affecting the defense supply chain, exacerbating the existing challenges in the defense industrial base illuminated by the Ukraine conflict. The scarcity of essential materials like steel has resulted in a backlog that significantly hampers military readiness and capability.

Concluding the segment, Brennan acknowledged Shaheen’s insights, hinting at the ongoing need to scrutinize defense policies and international strategies.