Trump’s Nominee for Secretary of State Prepares to Discuss Pakistan’s Missile Program: Richard Grenell.
Web Desk: Richard Grenell, the special envoy nominated by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, stated in an interview that Marco Rubio, Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State, is prepared to address Pakistan’s missile program.
Speaking to a U.S. digital platform, Grenell highlighted that nuclear-armed nations are handled differently. He emphasized that Rubio has specifically prepared to engage in discussions regarding Pakistan’s missile development.
Grenell criticized the Biden administration, claiming it failed to accomplish key objectives over the past four years and is now attempting to address them in its final 45 days.
When asked about U.S.-Pakistan relations during Trump’s tenure, Grenell remarked that the Trump administration enjoyed excellent relations with Pakistan’s then-government. He noted similarities between Trump and the Pakistani political outsider who led the country at the time, praising their practical approaches to governance.
Grenell also expressed support for the release of Pakistan’s former prime minister, arguing that the charges against him mirror those faced by Trump. He dismissed recent remarks by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller as overly complex, reiterating the call for the former prime minister’s release.
U.S. Sanctions on Pakistani Institutions
Recently, the United States imposed sanctions on four Pakistani entities for allegedly supporting the development of long-range ballistic missiles. The sanctioned organizations include Islamabad’s National Development Complex and three Karachi-based firms: Akhtar & Sons, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprises.
According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, these institutions are accused of advancing Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.
In a related statement, U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer expressed concerns that Pakistan, equipped with nuclear weapons, is developing long-range ballistic missiles capable of striking targets beyond South Asia, potentially including the United States.
Pakistan’s Response
Responding to the U.S. sanctions, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the decision biased. The ministry reiterated that Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are designed to ensure peace and stability in South Asia.
