Ukraine Receives Wider Pledges of Support in Case of US Retreat, Says Blinken

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
20/07/2024 17h03

In a bid to address concerns over Ukraine potentially losing crucial U.S. support, Secretary of State Antony Blinken reassured the nation that it is on its way to achieving military self-sufficiency. Blinken's statement came after fears mounted that a potential victory by former President Donald Trump in the November election could result in a withdrawal of commitments to Ukraine.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the United States, under President Joe Biden, has been a stalwart supporter in the country's battle against the invading forces. However, Trump's stance on U.S. backing for Ukraine's defense has been inconsistent, leaving supporters of Ukraine worried about the future.

Blinken, speaking at the Aspen Security Forum in Colorado, acknowledged the possibility of a different administration altering the course of policy towards Ukraine. He emphasized the strong bipartisan support in Congress for Ukraine as a key element in countering Russian President Vladimir Putin's territorial ambitions.

Notably, Blinken highlighted that more than 20 countries, including some NATO partners, Japan, and the European Union, have pledged to maintain their military and financial aid to Ukraine, even if the United States were to withdraw its support. These pledges were made at a recent NATO summit in Washington, signifying a united front against Russian aggression.

While Ukraine's journey towards military, economic, and democratic self-sufficiency is well underway, Blinken acknowledged that every administration has the authority to shape its own policies. However, with a host of committed allies standing alongside Ukraine, the likelihood of a significant retreat in support seems less worrisome.

In response to Ukraine's concerns, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged in a phone conversation with Donald Trump on Friday. Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the bipartisan support from the American Congress and invoked the need to discuss steps that could lead to a fair and lasting peace.

Trump also took to his social media platform to appreciate Zelenskyy's outreach, promising to end the war that has caused significant loss and devastation. His comments further reassured Ukraine that there are avenues for continued support even in the face of potential policy shifts.

With an array of nations firmly committed to bolstering Ukraine's position, the country can continue to forge ahead on its path to self-reliance. The strong bipartisan support in the United States, as well as international alliances, serve as a robust security net, ensuring that Ukraine's freedom and independence remain safeguarded.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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