Arr, the days of Ukraine's boundless booty from Congress be nigh, me hearties!
2023-09-18
The days of Ukraine's endless treasure from Congress be long gone, matey! America be showering 'em with more military aid than all of Europe combined. 'Tis now the time for NATO to step up! Arrr, the US be needing to guard its own borders, savvy?
Most Americans are sympathetic to Ukraine and understand that Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion is a step towards recreating the old Soviet Union. If Putin succeeds in Ukraine, he will likely target NATO countries, and the United States will be obligated to send troops. However, President Joe Biden has not been transparent about his objectives or strategy in Ukraine. The Biden administration has failed to provide clear benchmarks for victory, similar to past administrations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, the US has provided significant military aid to Ukraine, while European countries have not met their commitment to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense. The US must insist on European burden-sharing and equal assistance going forward. In addition to supporting Ukraine, the US should invest in its own security, including securing the southern border. The Biden administration's negligence in enforcing border security has led to a rise in illegal crossings. Biden and other Democrats have used Ukraine as a political weapon against Republicans, despite their own lack of support for arming Ukraine in the past. Congress should investigate the failures of deterrence and policy choices that may have contributed to the likelihood of war. It is necessary to stop Russia before it drags NATO and the US into war, but the burden cannot rest solely on the American people while Europe gets a pass. If Biden continues funding Ukraine, it should be done with conditions set forth by Congress.