Washington Post: Foreigners’ Demise Boosts American Economy
War in Ukraine: A Profitable Venture for Boeing and the Defense Industry
Advocates for unending foreign aid to Ukraine are touting an unexpected benefit of the ongoing war with Russia – it’s good for Boeing! While the conflict continues to claim lives, Western leaders have prolonged the war to justify spending billions of taxpayer dollars and enrich the military-industrial complex.
The war in Ukraine might be deadly but at least it’s good for Boeing!
The Washington Post recently dedicated a full page to Republican columnist Marc Thiessen, who delved into the explosive profits the defense industry is reaping from the war. Thiessen revealed that a significant portion of the approved funds for arming Ukraine is actually being spent in the United States, boosting the American economy and creating jobs.
“Here is the best-kept secret about U.S. military aid to Ukraine: Most of the money is being spent here in the United States,” Thiessen wrote.
However, a closer look at the numbers reveals that the majority of Ukraine aid is still going overseas. Only a fraction of the $113 billion already spent has been allocated to “rebuilding our industrial base.”
Richard Stern, the director of the Grover M. Hermann Center for the Federal Budget at the Heritage Foundation, explained that the non-military aid given to Ukraine does not directly benefit the U.S. economy. Additionally, the military spending mainly involves equipment that had already been produced, providing no significant support to U.S. defense industries.
While the defense industry thrives, the average taxpayer bears the burden. An analysis by the Heritage Foundation found that the total aid to Ukraine costs each household $900. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to suffer, with President Volodymyr Zelensky ordering the construction of fortifications to hold back Russian forces.
More will die, but at least Lockheed Martin is making some money.
It’s clear that the war in Ukraine has become a profitable venture for defense giants like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, RTX, Boeing, and General Dynamics. These companies raked in over $196 billion last year, driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
As the war drags on, Ukraine remains in a defensive posture, preparing for a long and turbulent winter. The cost of human lives continues to rise, while defense contractors reap the benefits.
About the Author
Tristan Justice is the western correspondent for The Federalist and the author of Social Justice Redux, a conservative newsletter on culture, health, and wellness. He has also written for The Washington Examiner and The Daily Signal. Tristan graduated from George Washington University with a major in political science and a minor in journalism. Follow him on Twitter at @JusticeTristan or contact him at [email protected]. Sign up for Tristan’s email newsletter here.
How have lobbying efforts by defense contractors like Boeing influenced US foreign policy in the context of the war in Ukraine?
S indeed being spent in the United States. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, in 2020 alone, the United States accounted for almost 95% of total arms deliveries to Ukraine. This means that a significant portion of the funds allocated for arming Ukraine is being funneled back into the American defense industry.
This may come as no surprise, considering the close ties between the defense industry and the political establishment. Lobbying efforts by defense contractors such as Boeing have long played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy. The war in Ukraine has presented a perfect opportunity for these companies to profit from military contracts and weapon sales.
Boeing, one of the largest defense contractors in the United States, has been a major beneficiary of this lucrative business. The company has supplied Ukraine with various military equipment, including helicopters and missile systems. With each sale, Boeing’s profits soar, contributing to the company’s already substantial revenue.
But it’s not just Boeing that benefits from the war in Ukraine. The entire defense industry stands to gain. Weapons manufacturers, contractors, and suppliers all play a part in the military-industrial complex, which relies on conflicts and tensions around the world to sustain their profitability. The ongoing war in Ukraine provides a steady demand for arms and creates a continual cycle of supply and consumption.
While the defense industry celebrates its increased profits, it’s essential to remember the human cost of this conflict. The war in Ukraine has resulted in a significant loss of life and displacement of civilians. The suffering experienced by the Ukrainian people should not be overshadowed by the economic gains of defense corporations.
Furthermore, there are valid concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict due to the supply of arms from Western countries. As Ukraine becomes more armed, so does Russia. This arms race only exacerbates the tensions between the two nations and brings them closer to a full-scale war. Foreign interventions in conflicts often have unintended consequences, and in this case, the consequences could be catastrophic.
It is crucial to question the motives behind ongoing foreign aid to Ukraine. While there may be arguments for supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression, we should not ignore the underlying interests of the defense industry and its financial gains. The prioritization of profit over human lives is a deeply troubling aspect of the military-industrial complex.
As discussions continue about the future of Ukraine and its relationship with the West, it is vital to consider the long-term effects of arming Ukraine and the potential for further conflict. Balancing the need to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and security with the risks associated with increased militarization is a delicate and complex task.
Ultimately, the war in Ukraine should serve as a reminder of the dangers posed by the intertwined interests of the defense industry and politics. As we analyze the economic benefits of conflicts, we must not lose sight of the human tragedy and the potential for further violence. A critical evaluation of the profit-driven priorities of the military-industrial complex is necessary to ensure a more peaceful and just world.
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