Pompeo criticizes GOP’s opposition to US aid for Ukraine.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Defends U.S. Assistance to Ukraine

Republicans Criticized for Opposing Aid to Ukraine

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently spoke out against Republicans who are critical of U.S. assistance to Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. At a May 17 event at the Hudson Institute, where Pompeo is a distinguished fellow, he took issue with those who argue that supporting Ukraine detracts from assisting Taiwan in the face of China’s growing threat.

Pompeo dismissed this notion as a “falsity of a zero-sum game” and explained that the issue is not about the number of artillery rounds available, but rather the production capacity of the industrial-military complex. He also lamented the Trump administration’s failure to address the “shallowness” of the industrial base needed to build a deterrent model that would be respected by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Xi Jinping’s Interest in Ukraine and Taiwan

Pompeo warned that Xi is closely watching the situation in Ukraine to determine whether to invade Taiwan. He acknowledged the isolationist sentiment within the GOP but stressed that it is crucial to understand the cost of not supporting Ukraine. While $25 billion-$30 billion in U.S. equipment to Ukraine is “real money,” Pompeo argued that the cost of not supporting Ukraine would be far greater.

Why Supporting Ukraine Matters

Here are some reasons why supporting Ukraine is important:

• Ukraine is a key ally in Eastern Europe and a bulwark against Russian aggression.
• Ukraine’s success in resisting Russian aggression is a model for other countries facing similar threats.
• Ukraine’s stability is crucial for the security of Europe and the world.
• Ukraine’s success in building a democratic and prosperous society is in the interest of the United States and the international community.

Pompeo’s message is clear: supporting Ukraine is not just a matter of principle, but also a strategic imperative for the United States and its allies.