Rep. Mike Turner on Afghanistan Vetting, Ukraine Negotiations, and Allegations in Counter‑Drug Strikes

Overview: Rep. Mike Turner (R‑Ohio) spoke about national security and foreign policy during a Nov. 30, 2025 interview. He addressed the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, vetting concerns, Ukraine negotiations, the role of U.S. envoys, and congressional oversight of alleged unlawful actions in recent counter‑drug operations.

On Afghanistan and vetting

Turner described the incident under discussion as "classic terrorism" and argued the broader context of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan matters. He said the mission in Afghanistan was to dismantle al‑Qaeda, remove the Taliban as a safe haven and prevent future threats — and that the chaotic, rapid withdrawal created risks for people who had aided U.S. efforts. According to Turner, that turmoil contributed to processing and resettlement challenges that allowed some individuals on watch lists to enter the United States, which he characterized as a vetting failure.

He repeatedly emphasized that investigations are ongoing and that final judgments should await their findings. Turner rejected the claim that earlier agreements constrained the subsequent withdrawal entirely, saying congressional hearings and reports point to decisions made during the Biden administration as decisive factors in how the evacuation unfolded.

On domestic security and the National Guard

Asked about additional National Guard deployments to Washington, D.C., Turner said the question depends on how policymakers define the problem of public safety. He noted that many Americans perceive rising crime and that lawmakers have heard reports the Guard presence in the capital has helped reduce certain criminal activity, while urging careful assessment of mission needs and duration.

On Ukraine negotiations and U.S. posture toward Russia

Turner said he shares concerns that any U.S. diplomatic approach must not appear to favor Russia. He praised public statements calling for a strong, sovereign Ukraine and stressed that any peace plan must be evaluated with skepticism toward Russian intentions. Turner warned that Russia remains a declared adversary — citing its nuclear modernization and cyber activities — and argued U.S. negotiators must ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security are front and center.

Turner also responded to reporting about a leaked transcript of a call involving the U.S. special envoy and a Russian advisor. He said the most troubling element would be any apparent orchestration that allowed a Russian voice to reach the U.S. president ahead of a direct Ukrainian appeal, and he urged that President Zelenskyy be heard directly in any high‑level engagements.

On the special envoy and negotiation personnel

While cautioning against drawing sweeping conclusions from selected excerpts of negotiations, Turner said sequence and optics matter in diplomacy. He recommended careful scrutiny by the White House and Congress to ensure U.S. negotiators prioritize Ukraine's interests and do not inadvertently amplify adversary messaging.

On Venezuela and potential military action

Turner said Congress had not been briefed on any imminent military operation near Venezuela and that the president had not provided the necessary notifications to lawmakers. He acknowledged concerns about a regional buildup and stressed congressional interest in how that activity relates to broader issues such as drug trafficking.

On allegations about a September counter‑drug strike

Regarding reporting that a follow‑up strike killed survivors of an earlier engagement, Turner said congressional committees — including chairs and ranking members on the Armed Services committees — have opened inquiries. He stated that Congress has not been provided information confirming the reported sequence of events. Turner said that if the allegation that survivors were deliberately targeted is true, it would constitute a serious and potentially illegal act, and he urged full investigation and transparency from the Pentagon.

Conclusion

Turner concluded by reiterating the need for continued oversight, careful diplomatic posture in Ukraine negotiations, and thorough review of all facts before issuing final judgments. He emphasized Congress’s role in examining executive actions related to national security and the use of military force.