Pompeo: Russia terrorizing Ukraine because U.S. 'didn't demonstrate the resolve' we did under Trump

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo weighed in Friday on the Russian invasion of Ukraine during his keynote address at the Conservative Political Action Conference.

"We've seen a Russian dictator now terrorize the Ukrainian people because America didn't demonstrate the resolve that we did for the 4 years prior," said Pompeo, a potential 2024 top-tier GOP presidential candidate with foreign policy credentials.

Pompeo said the Trump administration took the approach of former President Ronald Reagan, which was "peace through strength" and putting America first.

"We told people around the world you cannot tread on us," he said.

Pompeo said one of his greatest concerns as America's top diplomat was the Chinese Communist Party.

He said the Chinese government has spies planted inside the U.S. in various institutions. He mentioned his decision to close a Chinese consulate in Houston.

"Today they are inside our colleges and universities," Pompeo said. "They're working on local governments, our mayors, our governors." 

Pompeo also said he is often asked whether he is happy to be a former secretary of State.

"I miss every single minute of it," he replied. "I wish we were back there leading America."

Pompeo also said public schools should be teaching children about the "greatness" of America.

"If we do not teach our children, the next generation, that we are not a racist generation, then surely the bad guys will come to be right about an America in decline," he said. "It is not true. We will prevent it from being so." 

The former congressman and CIA director said he and his wife are "committed" to "stay in this fight" of making a difference in the direction of the U.S.

"I've traveled all across this country helping good candidates who have decided to give of themselves back to their community," Pompeo said. "Let's be in the fight. Let's never give an inch."