Former CIA officer Sue Gordon has called out Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his conspicuous silence during President Donald Trump’s recent high-profile meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The event, which critics described as Trump “fawning” over Xi, has raised serious questions about the United States’ diplomatic stance and the role of its leaders in addressing international relations.

This past week, Trump hosted Xi at the White House for a multi-day event, a gesture that many viewed as a stark contrast to the administration’s treatment of allies such as Canada. On the verge of the state dinner, Nicolle Wallace of MS NOW pressed Gordon for her insights regarding the optics of Trump’s warm welcome to the Chinese leader.

Wallace emphasized the “split-screens” of U.S. foreign policy that were on display: respect for traditional allies juxtaposed with what appeared to be a blatant show of deference to a strategic rival. “What does it say about Marco Rubio that he didn’t lay his body down before Trump got to Andrews [Air Force Base] and greet Xi?” Wallace asked.

Gordon, who has known Rubio for years, expressed disappointment in his taciturn role. “I know he knows better,” she asserted, suggesting that Rubio’s silence was a striking departure from the proactive stance she expected from a key member of the government.

She speculated that Rubio might be aiming to maintain a low profile in the hope of exerting influence from the background. “Denied!” she noted, highlighting that there are moments when public officials must step forward and advocate for the American people.

Gordon suggested that a leader’s reluctance to publicly challenge the administration’s decisions sends a troubling message about the United States’ commitment to its principles. “When you see something like this unfold, you have to ask, what are we doing?” she remarked.

Trump’s approach to China, according to Gordon, undermines the strong front the U.S. has historically sought to project. “What you’re sending a message to our allies and partners is that we will say whatever is expedient for us,” she explained.

Her critique of Trump’s warm reception for Xi illustrates wider concerns among security experts. Individuals within the intelligence community are wary of the implications of viewing foreign relations through the lens of personal charm rather than strategic positioning.

Moreover, Gordon pointed out a paradox in Trump’s shifting narrative on China. “Six years ago, I would have told Trump that China is not America’s friend,” she said, emphasizing that flattery alone cannot alter the fundamental nature of international relations.

Gordon recalled that Trump previously acknowledged the need for America to be less dependent on China. “He can’t manipulate them into being less than they want to be by flattering them,” she contended.

This flattery, Gordon argued, reveals vulnerabilities and invites Beijing to take advantage of perceived weakness. The stakes are high, as international alliances reflect the United States’ long-term strategic goals.

She warned that the implications of such a diplomatic posture extend beyond immediate public relations. “Our friends will have to decide who we are and whether they can depend on us in times of need,” she said, painting a dire picture for future alliance dynamics.

The former CIA officer’s comments have ignited discussions surrounding the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy strategies under the Trump administration. As global powers engage in increasingly complex and strategic relationships, the need for a coherent and consistent diplomatic stance cannot be overstated.

With Trump’s administration facing scrutiny over its approach to allies and adversaries alike, the importance of vocal and active leadership, particularly from figures like Rubio, has never been more crucial.

In a world where geopolitical landscapes are constantly shifting, the ramifications of silence can be profound. As the Trump administration continues to navigate its path with China, the next steps taken by leaders within the U.S. government could define how this pivotal relationship unfolds.

As Gordon succinctly put it, “This is just a really difficult, unfortunate, and sad projection for the future.” With tensions simmering globally, the call for strategic engagement over mere flattering gestures grows louder by the day.

Moving forward, the actions and statements from Secretary of State Rubio and others in leadership positions may play a defining role in shaping the narrative of U.S.-China relations and the broader international order.