US Republican senator Lindsey Graham, who died Saturday aged 71, is being remembered by leaders in Israel and Ukraine as a defender of their interests, in tributes that reflect his global reach and a divisive record on foreign affairs.
Lindsey Graham, the US Republican senator who died on Saturday at the age of 71, is being remembered in tributes from world leaders that highlight both his extensive international influence and a legacy the Guardian described as complicated and often bloody.
According to the Guardian, one of the first tributes came from Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s national security minister, whom the outlet characterised as a far-right provocateur. The Guardian noted that Ben-Gvir recently caused widespread anger by sharing footage of himself taunting bound activists who had been trying to sail to Gaza with aid.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu followed shortly after, calling Graham a “great friend of Israel and a cherished friend of mine”, according to the Guardian.
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also paid tribute, describing Graham as “a true defender of freedom and the values that make our world safer”, the Guardian reported.
The Guardian said Graham had a global reach that few could rival and was vital in shaping Donald Trump’s worldview, framing the range of tributes as a reflection of a foreign policy record that drew both praise and criticism.
Why it matters
Graham was one of the most influential voices on US foreign policy, and the reaction to his death illustrates how deeply his positions shaped relationships with allies such as Israel and Ukraine. The tributes, from figures ranging from mainstream leaders to controversial ministers, capture the divided assessments of his long career.
Frequently asked questions
When did Lindsey Graham die and how old was he?
According to the Guardian, Lindsey Graham died on Saturday at the age of 71.
Which world leaders paid tribute to Lindsey Graham?
The Guardian reported tributes from Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
What role did Graham play in US foreign policy?
The Guardian said Graham had a global reach few could rival and was vital in shaping Donald Trump's worldview.