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Trump’s Spiritual Advisor Changes Stance After Ukraine Visit, Calls Russia “Pure Evil”

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Ivan_khomenko
Ivan Khomenko
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Trump’s Spiritual Advisor Changes Stance After Ukraine Visit, Calls Russia “Pure Evil”
Personal spiritual advisor to US President Donald Trump, Mark Burns, during his visit to Bucha, stands near a pile of civilian cars, that got shot by Russian soldiers occupying the town in 2022. (Source: Chief rabbi of Ukraine/Facebook)

Pastor Mark Burns, a spiritual advisor to US President Donald Trump, has reversed his position on military aid to Ukraine following a recent visit to the country.

In an interview with The Kyiv Independent on April 9, Burns said that witnessing the consequences of Russia’s full-scale invasion first-hand led him to change his views. Previously known as a vocal critic of US support for Ukraine, he now considers aid to Kyiv essential and aligned with American interests.

“When you hear about the atrocities… it completely changes your perspective. Supporting Ukraine is what ‘America First’ really means,” Burns stated.

The pastor emphasized that his change of opinion does not conflict with his support for Trump. Instead, he directed his message at other conservatives and Americans who, like him, had been influenced by misinformation.

“I was misled by fake news about Ukraine,” he said, referencing past claims that Ukraine targeted religious institutions. “That is a blatant lie,” Burns added, noting that during his trip to Kyiv, he met with religious leaders of various faiths who confirmed the country’s commitment to freedom of worship.

Pastor Mark Burns visits Bucha with Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Azman, standing near a site of destroyed civilian vehicles targeted during the Russian occupation. (Source: Office of the President of Ukraine)
Pastor Mark Burns visits Bucha with Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Azman, standing near a site of destroyed civilian vehicles targeted during the Russian occupation. (Source: Office of the President of Ukraine)

He also pointed out that nearly 700 religious sites in Ukraine have reportedly been deliberately targeted by Russian forces since the start of the full-scale invasion.

“Politics fades into the background when you’re on the ground, speaking with people and witnessing the destruction caused by Russia,” he said. Burns financed his trip independently and stated that he was not invited or sent by anyone to promote a particular message.

Earlier, Pastor Mark Burns visited Bucha and Irpin alongside Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Azman. The two toured sites of Russian atrocities, including destroyed neighborhoods and mass grave locations.

Burns described the experience as deeply moving and called for the US to provide Ukraine with tanks, F-35 fighter jets, and air defense systems, emphasizing that frontline soldiers are asking for weapons—not money.

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