McConnell: ‘I want to express my gratitude’ to Kurds

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) offered an unprompted defense of the Kurds on Wednesday, hours after President Trump said they “weren’t angels.”

McConnell began his weekly leadership press conference by speaking about the Kurds, noting that they were “great fighters” and had been an “extremely valuable alliance.”

“I want to express my gratitude to the Kurds,” he added.

{mosads}McConnell didn’t directly mention Trump during his initial remarks, but noted the situation in Syria was “very concerning.”

Trump has sent mixed signals about his decision, slapping new sanctions on Turkey even as he’s publicly distanced himself from the Kurdish fighters. 

During a White House meeting on Wednesday, Trump told reporters that the Kurds “were no angels.” 

“They’re no angels. They’re no angels. Go back and take a look,” he said. 

The remark drew immediate backlash on Capitol Hill. 

“Oh my goodness gracious. Oh my goodness gracious. The Kurds are our friends and our allies,” said Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah).