Susan Rice, former White House adviser and U.N. ambassador, recently criticized Donald Trump after reports revealed he had held at least seven phone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin since leaving office.
Rice suggested that these talks could potentially violate the Logan Act, a law passed in 1799 that prohibits American citizens from engaging in unauthorized diplomacy with foreign governments in dispute with the U.S. The law aims to prevent individuals from undermining the current administration’s foreign policy.
These allegations were brought to light by journalist Bob Woodward in a new book, which claims Trump maintained frequent contact with Putin after his presidency began in 2021. While Trump’s campaign has denied the accusations, his previous actions—such as praising his close relationship with Putin and pressuring Republicans to block military aid to Ukraine—have fueled speculation about his conduct.
Rice’s comments on social media, likening Trump’s actions to those he previously accused John Kerry of committing, brought further attention to the matter.
Susan Rice Critiques Trump’s Secret Talks with Putin, Suggesting Possible Violation of the Logan Act
Rice’s remarks were particularly pointed in reference to Trump’s past claims that Kerry violated the Logan Act. During the Trump administration, Kerry met with Iranian officials to encourage them to stay in the Iran Nuclear Deal.
Trump publicly condemned Kerry’s actions in 2019, stating that Kerry was undermining U.S. policy by engaging with Iran without authorization. However, Kerry was never charged under the Logan Act, and his meetings were briefed to senior State Department officials, casting doubt on Trump’s assertions.
Beyond Kerry, this is not the first time Trump has faced questions about his dealings with foreign leaders. His meetings with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán—who shares pro-Russian views and is seen as an ally of Trump—have also raised concerns.
Orbán’s recent actions, such as blocking a crucial financial aid package for Ukraine, have further complicated relations with the Biden administration. Orbán’s support for Trump adds another layer of controversy to these interactions.
While the Logan Act is rarely enforced, its potential application in Trump’s case has sparked debate. Only two people have ever been charged under the Logan Act, both in the early 19th century, and neither faced prosecution. Given this limited enforcement, it remains uncertain whether Trump’s conversations with Putin will lead to any legal consequences, despite the growing scrutiny surrounding his foreign interactions.
