Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered a scathing critique of President Biden's approach to Ukraine, accusing him of passive and indecisive leadership that risks prolonging the war and jeopardizing public support. McConnell expressed his concerns about the President's rhetoric and actions during a speech on the Senate floor.

McConnell highlighted his long-standing awareness of the threat of Russian aggression, dating back to before the seizure of Ukrainian territory by Putin's "little green men" in 2014. He also pointed out that he has consistently urged administrations of both parties to take steps to deter Russian aggression and support Ukraine's defenses.

However, McConnell criticized President Biden's focus on lowering tensions with Moscow through measures like the five-year extension of the New START treaty, instead of shipping lethal weapons to Ukraine. He argued that when Putin massed forces on Ukraine's border in 2021, he urged the President to provide critical military capabilities quickly, but Biden delayed and dithered for months before approving shipments.

According to McConnell, the hesitation and caution displayed by President Biden in supporting Ukraine have hindered the efforts of allies who closely follow America's decisions. He called for the President and his administration to provide more practical explanations to the nation about the fundamental interest in Ukrainian victory, the contribution to competition with China, and the rigorous oversight and accountability of U.S. assistance.

The Senate Republican Leader also expressed hope that the classified Senate briefing scheduled for the evening would lead to a more forceful presentation of the case for supporting Ukraine. He welcomed reports that the United States may finally provide ATACMs, a capability that could have made an impact on the battlefield sooner, but questioned why this decision, like previous ones, took so long.

McConnell emphasized his commitment to sustaining support for Ukraine, not out of charity but as a primary focus on America's interests. He concluded by urging President Biden to take on his responsibility to lead the case publicly in the United States, warning that the administration's timid leadership would continue to speak volumes both at home and abroad until then.

Tomorrow, McConnell will join his colleagues in welcoming President Zelensky to the Capitol, where he will continue to advocate for sustained support of the Ukrainian cause.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mccconnell.senate.gov/