Ryan Routh, the 58-year-old suspect in the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, has emerged as a figure of intrigue due to his vocal support for Ukraine. Arrested on Sunday for allegedly hiding in the bushes outside Trump’s golf course in Florida with an SKS-style rifle, Routh’s story reveals a complex and perhaps contradictory relationship with the war-torn nation.
While he once supported Trump, Routh’s views appear to have shifted dramatically in recent years, becoming a fervent advocate for Ukraine’s cause. He has publicly stated his willingness to fight for Ukraine, even attempting to recruit Afghan soldiers to join the war effort. These actions have sparked speculation about his potential connection to the Ukrainian government, although Ukraine has vehemently denied any links to Routh.
Routh’s support for Ukraine manifested in various ways. He took to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Signal, expressing his unwavering commitment to the country. He even established a military recruitment website, calling volunteering in Ukraine “the most honorable and noble sacrifice.”
In February 2022, Routh travelled to Kyiv, Ukraine, setting up a booth in Maidan Square to recruit volunteers. Images captured by NBC News showed Routh sporting a blue and yellow hair dye, symbolizing the Ukrainian flag, and a bulletproof vest, showcasing his dedication to the cause.
His support extended beyond mere rhetoric. Routh actively participated in demonstrations in Kyiv, holding placards denouncing Russia and supporting Ukrainian freedom. He also attempted to recruit soldiers for the war effort, forming a network of volunteers to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
However, Routh’s attempts to contribute to the war effort were met with some resistance. He was reportedly rejected by the Ukrainian Army due to his age and lack of combat experience, leading him to explore alternative avenues of recruitment.
Routh’s actions haven’t gone unnoticed. The Kremlin, responding to the assassination attempt, implied a connection between Routh and Ukraine, suggesting that playing with fire can have consequences. However, Ukrainian officials have swiftly dismissed any association with Routh, emphasizing his lack of involvement with the Ukrainian military.
Despite these denials, Routh’s involvement in the recruitment of Afghan soldiers and his efforts to mobilize volunteers raises questions about his motivations and the extent of his ties to Ukraine. The investigation into the assassination attempt is ongoing, and Routh’s history with Ukraine remains a crucial element in understanding the events leading up to this alleged crime.
