US President Donald Trump has led tributes following the death of his close ally, US Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known". In a statement published on his Truth Social platform, the President praised the 71-year-old South Carolina Republican as a "true American Patriot" who was "always working".
Trump expressed his deep grief, noting that the senator would be greatly missed and adding that further details and funeral arrangements would follow in due course. The prominent Republican senator passed away on Saturday evening after what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness". In an official statement, Graham's office requested privacy for the family during an incredibly difficult period.
Emergency services had reportedly responded to a call regarding a cardiac arrest at his Capitol Hill home on Saturday night, shortly after he returned from a diplomatic visit to Ukraine. Senate Majority Leader John Thune also paid tribute to his friend and colleague, highlighting Graham's long and dedicated service both in the US Air Force and in Congress.
Thune remembered him as a fierce advocate for the United States and a staunch ally to freedom-loving countries globally, noting that numerous presidents and heads of state had regularly relied on his counsel. Elected to the US Senate in 2002 to succeed Strom Thurmond, Graham's enduring influence on the federal judiciary, national defence, and his home state of South Carolina would, Thune noted, be felt for generations.
International leaders also expressed their condolences, reflecting Graham's heavy involvement in foreign policy. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced his grief, describing Graham as a cherished and unparalleled friend of Israel who understood that the security of Israel and America remains inseparable. Netanyahu stated that Israel had lost one of its greatest allies and America a great patriot. On the other hand, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, was visibly upset with the announcement and referred to the senator as an authentic guardian of freedom and the principles that ensure safety in the world.
In particular, Zelenskyy remembered Graham’s latest endeavours in the capital of Ukraine, Kyiv, where he was working on some significant initiatives meant to bring about the resolution of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Also read: US launches third round of military strikes on Iran; Hormuz shut
Follow us
