CPAC 2024: Trump allies slam Ukraine aid as Russia conflict persists
NATIONAL HARBOR, Maryland — Republicans at CPAC Rally Against Military Funding for Ukraine
Days before the two-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, high-profile Republican allies of former President Donald Trump gathered at this year’s Conservative Political Action Conference to voice their opposition to providing additional military funding to Ukraine. The conference, which is also celebrating Trump’s presidency, has centered around criticizing global organizations and their attempts to influence nations, as reflected in its theme, “Where Globalism Goes to Die.”
Many of the speakers at CPAC, who are Trump’s closest allies, echoed his reluctance to provide Ukraine with more foreign aid and supported his belief that European allies should contribute more to their own defense costs.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the flow of weapons and cash from the U.S., totaling around $44 billion, has significantly decreased. A package that includes $60 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, recently passed in the Senate, is now in limbo as House Republicans loyal to Trump question whether the U.S. should continue sending resources.
Decide Joe Biden, which country matters more to you, the border of the United States or the border of Ukraine?
Said Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) to cheers and applause from the crowd on Thursday, who started chanting “USA!”
Donalds also expressed support for the GOP presidential nominee’s recent comments, stating that he would not protect NATO if member countries don’t increase defense spending.
“If the world is actually going to have some security, it can’t just be America, scoring all the points, grabbing all the rebounds, passing all the assists, blocking all the shots, we need our allies and NATO to step up and do their part,”
Donalds added, using a basketball analogy.
However, Donalds clarified his position on Israel, emphasizing the need to support the country in its fight against Hamas.
During a fireside chat, Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) suggested that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was a result of the U.S.’s insistence on expanding NATO.
Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) argued that lawmakers should prioritize taking care of American citizens instead of getting involved in what seems to be an endless conflict.
The White House is now calling for additional funding for the war in Ukraine following the death of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny. The administration has linked Russia’s victory in Avdiivka to delayed funding, which caused Ukrainian troops to ration ammunition and handed Russia its first major military victory since last May.
Despite the divide among Republicans on foreign policy, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) continues to advocate for providing aid to Ukraine, citing former President Ronald Reagan’s stance on global responsibilities.
While CPAC has traditionally represented the views of the Republican Party, some Republicans believe that this year’s theme does not reflect the party’s entire perspective, even as Trump solidifies his influence.
Amidst the growing split on foreign policy, American Conservative Union Chairman Matt Schlapp explained that the anti-globalism theme is not solely about providing aid to other countries but is also a call to oppose the influence of organizations like the World Health Organization, the United Nations, the European Union, and the World Economic Forum.
As the debate over military funding for Ukraine continues, the future of U.S. foreign policy remains uncertain.
Why do some Republicans argue for reducing or cutting off military aid to Ukraine, and what are the potential consequences of this action?
He goals and being the parent of the neighborhood,”
Donalds said, emphasizing the need for European allies to take more responsibility for their own defense. This sentiment was echoed by other prominent Republican figures at the conference, including Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), who criticized the U.S. government’s role in providing military aid to Ukraine. Paul said, arguing that European countries should instead step up their own contributions. These remarks reflect a broader shift within the Republican Party, which has increasingly advocated for a more isolationist approach to foreign policy. Trump’s presidency saw a departure from traditional Republican support for international alliances and organizations, as he prioritized America’s domestic interests above global cooperation. This stance resonated with many of his supporters and has had a lasting impact on the party’s priorities. However, critics argue that reducing or cutting off military aid to Ukraine could have dire consequences. Ukraine has been fighting against Russian-backed separatists since 2014, with the conflict resulting in over 14,000 deaths and displacement of millions of people. The U.S. has been a key ally to Ukraine, providing financial support and weapons to help them defend their sovereignty. Supporters of continued military aid argue that it is in the interest of the United States to support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. They believe that a strong Ukraine acts as a bulwark against further Russian expansionism and helps stabilize the region. In addition, they emphasize the importance of upholding international norms and commitments, such as supporting countries facing external aggression. The debate surrounding military funding for Ukraine highlights the ongoing tension within the Republican Party between those who prioritize American interests above all else and those who believe in maintaining a strong international presence. While each side may have valid arguments, the decision regarding military aid to Ukraine has significant implications for the global balance of power and U.S. foreign policy. As the Conservative Political Action Conference continues, it remains to be seen how the Republican Party will navigate this complex issue and reconcile its internal divisions. The outcome will not only shape the party’s platform but also impact the United States’ stance on international affairs and its relationships with its allies.
“We should not be in a position where we are subsidizing other countries’ defense,”
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