Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Kushner Scandal May Be "Tempest In Teapot"

Another so-called Trump Administration "scandal" may not be as it appears.
So the story goes, Presidential advisor Jared Kushner talked with the Russian Ambassador to the United States about setting up a direct line of communication between the two of the world's three superpowers.  According to one source, however, the conversation was about a "simple one-off" communication with the Russians over Syria, and was not initially suggested by Kushner.  According to Fox News, this was suggested by Russian Ambassador to the U.S. Sergei Kislyak.  However, according to Fox, Kushner suggested that Russian equipment be used to thwart attempts to surveil the incoming administration.
So, let's get the facts straight:  the Russian ambassador suggested the conversation.  Kushner did not suggest it.  However, when spoken with about this, he suggested that the conversation take place over Russian-designed equipment so as to thwart any attempt by U.S. intelligence personnel to listen in on the call.  It concerns me that the Trump Administration would want to talk with the Russians without the intelligence community listening in.  However, such direct communication has been very important at times.  Consider the fact that during the Kennedy years there was the "red phone", which was a permanent link.  Consider also the fact that during the Cuban missile crisis that direct line probably prevented World War III.  However, considering the way intelligence officials and others seem to be interested in scuttling the Trump presidency, the suggestion that there be a private communication link does not surprise me.  In fact, it may be a very intelligent move.  So, the intelligence apparatus of this country may have made it easier for the Trump Administration to conduct back-room deals and still have the support of the public.  Confusing world, isn't it?  In effect, they may have discredited themselves.