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Trump Describes CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s Russia Visit as ‘Semi-Routine’

President Trump downplayed the significance of CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s recent trip to Russia, calling it a routine engagement following Kremlin confirmation of the visit.

Aug 26, 2026, 4:14 PM The Hill

CIA Director John Ratcliffe’stopic Russiageography John Ratcliffeperson Glenn Beckperson CIAorganization Kremlintopic Donald Trumpperson Semi-Routinetopic White Houseperson Hilltopic

Congratulations to John Ratcliffe on being sworn-in as our new CIA Director. This is a huge step forward in advancing our national security interests and deterring threats from enemies all over the world. · Photo by Office of Vice President of the United States · Public domain · Source: wikimedia

President Donald Trump referred to CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s trip to Russia during the week of August 26, 2026, as “semi-routine.” The Kremlin had confirmed that Ratcliffe was in Russia to meet with intelligence officials.

Speaking to conservative talk show host Glenn Beck on Wednesday, August 26, Trump said, “I hate to disappoint people. John Ratcliffe is a fantastic guy.”

The trip was acknowledged by both the Kremlin and the White House, with Trump emphasizing the routine nature of the engagement despite public interest.

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🇺🇸 The Hill · United States · Washington, D.C.

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