Leaders of NATO allies, Ukraine and Israel paid tribute to U.S. Sen. as a friend, partner and advocate of trans-Atlantic relations on Sunday, praising a figure who was a constant presence on the global foreign policy scene before and during the era of President .
The Republican senator had visited Ukraine just before his death and announced an agreement on Friday with the Trump administration to move forward on a package of
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Graham visited Ukraine 10 times during the years of , and 鈥渨as here with our people when it was most needed.鈥� He said that 鈥淟indsey was a true defender of freedom and the values that make our world safer.鈥�
Graham also drew respect on NATO’s eastern edge, where Russia’s intentions are viewed with deep concern.
Estonia鈥檚 Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna wrote on X that 鈥淓stonia will remember him as a steadfast friend, a strong supporter of NATO鈥檚 eastern flank, and an unwavering advocate for Ukraine.鈥� Latvian counterpart Baiba Bra啪e said that he was 鈥渁mong the strongest supporters of NATO and transatlantic relations (and) assistance to Ukraine in countering Russian aggression.”
鈥淗is commitment to the values of democracy, security, and international partnership earned him the respect and gratitude of many across Europe,鈥� Lithuanian Foreign Minister K臋stutis Budrys said. 鈥淗is voice will be missed, but his legacy will endure.鈥�
Finnish President Alexander Stubb called Graham 鈥渁 personal friend. A supporter of @NATO and Ukraine. A Transatlanticist. A friend of Finland.鈥�
A one-time critic of Trump turned close ally, Graham advised the president on foreign policy matters such as and Russia.
He had long backed policies aimed at isolating Iran and limiting its missile and nuclear programs, cheered Trump’s decision to strike nuclear sites last year and was a supporter of the latest conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called him 鈥渁 great friend of Israel鈥� and 鈥渁 cherished friend of mine.鈥�
Netanyahu said Graham understood that the security of Israel and the United States is inseparable and devoted his life to defending America, strengthening the U.S.-Israel alliance and standing up for the free world.
鈥淚srael has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend,鈥� Netanyahu said.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune recalled that 鈥淟indsey鈥檚 long and dedicated service in the Air Force and in Congress carried him to far-flung regions of the world.鈥�
鈥淗e was a strong advocate for the United States and a strong ally to freedom-loving countries across the globe,” Thune added. “He believed in the might of America to achieve good in the world and dedicated his life to advancing that cause.鈥�
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