Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) strongly criticized Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) for his staunch opposition to providing additional aid to Ukraine, challenging Vance to visit the war-torn country before making further statements on the matter.
Vance recently penned an op-ed in The New York Times arguing against providing more aid to Ukraine, asserting that even with increased assistance, Ukraine’s chances of success in the conflict with Russia remain slim. He emphasized the need for manpower and material resources that he believes exceed Ukraine’s capacity and U.S. support.
Senator J.D. Vance (Credits: jdvance.com)
However, Graham dismissed Vance’s assertions as “garbage,” asserting that Ukraine has addressed its manpower needs through changes in conscription laws and requires primarily military assistance.
Graham, who recently visited Ukraine himself, urged Vance to do the same and engage directly with Ukrainian military officials and citizens before forming his opinions.
As a staunch advocate for Ukraine within the GOP, Graham has repeatedly emphasized the strategic importance of supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, despite facing opposition from some within his party who advocate for withholding further aid.
Lindsey Graham (Credits: Newsweek)
He stressed the importance of assisting Ukraine to prevent further Russian expansionism in Europe and beyond. Graham challenged Vance’s stance, suggesting that supporting Ukraine is crucial to preventing a broader conflict involving NATO nations and Russia.
He emphasized the urgent need for bipartisan action to provide assistance to Ukraine, particularly as the Senate prepares to consider the House’s foreign aid bill, which includes funding for Ukraine, Israel, and Indo-Pacific allies, along with other national security measures such as a potential ban on the TikTok app.