Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Urges U.S. Aid to Ukraine in Fight Against Russia
ICARO Media Group
In a letter addressed to Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Hudson Institute President John Walters pushed for increased aid to Ukraine as it continues its battle against Russia. The duo argued that supporting Ukraine is crucial for safeguarding American freedom and values.
Pompeo, who served in the Trump administration, emphasized the connection between protecting Ukraine and addressing domestic challenges. This comes as some Republicans, including Johnson, have previously insisted on securing the border before providing further assistance to Kyiv.
Invoking former President Reagan's doctrine to combat totalitarian forces, Pompeo and Walters underscored the importance of standing by Ukraine, stating, "None of our challenges at home will be made better by abandoning our allies at this time of great need, when they are staring down enemies of the free world. The United States remains the indispensable nation. And this is a Time for Choosing. We encourage you to lead, and we will stand with you."
The letter, initially reported by Politico, adds to Pompeo's previous calls to support Ukraine. However, this appeal from the conservative Hudson Institute increases the pressure on Speaker Johnson as Congress reconvenes this week to address pressing issues.
Johnson is expected to take up Ukraine funding in the coming weeks, along with aid to other U.S. allies, including Israel, as it confronts the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.
Pompeo and Walters highlighted the threats posed by Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, stressing that deterring each adversary is vital for fending off other global threats. They wrote, "These conflicts are connected and directly impact the security of the United States. Americans are safer and more prosperous when we support our friends in thwarting our common enemies who work together against us across the globe."
The urgency for Ukraine funding has intensified as Kyiv struggles against a larger Russian army on the battlefield. The U.S. has not provided additional aid to Ukraine for approximately 16 months, with available funds having dried up months ago. The Biden administration emphasizes the urgency of delivering more weapons to the embattled country as soon as possible.
Capitalizing on the U.S. delay, Russian troops have incrementally advanced across the front line and recently seized the city of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed the determination of his troops to find a way to avoid retreating.
While most Republicans support providing aid to Ukraine, a small group of far-right lawmakers, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), oppose it. Greene has gone as far as threatening to force a vote on Johnson's removal over this issue.
One possible approach to building support for Ukraine is the idea of offering funding as a loan, an option previously suggested by former President Trump.
As Congress resumes deliberations, the call for increased aid to Ukraine gains traction, underscoring the urgency of supporting Kyiv in its struggle against Russia. The decision on Ukraine funding is eagerly awaited by those concerned about the escalating tensions in the region.