I simply don't understand the BS that comes out of the State Department on a regular basis anymore, regardless of who is in charge. It's utterly baffling to me, unless it's some kind of "good cop/bad cop" understanding between State and the WH.
It's certainly not a bad idea you have. :)
The SoS needs to be very diplomatic.
If something very undiplomatic (and this sure counts) needs to be said, it must come from the WH.