In a column published in Foreign Affairs, CIA Director William Burns emphasized the critical need for continued assistance to Ukraine by Western allies in its conflict with Russia.
Burns argued that failure to do so this year could result in a historic mistake with far-reaching consequences. He highlighted that less than 5 percent of the U.S. defense budget, which he deemed a relatively modest investment, is currently allocated to support Kyiv.
Burns outlined a strategic perspective, indicating that providing arms to Ukraine would strengthen its negotiating position in potential serious peace talks. This, in turn, would enable Ukraine’s military to resist Russian forces while simultaneously rebuilding its infrastructure.
CIA director Bill Burns (Credits: FedScoop)
He pointed out the economic strain on Moscow, which incurs significant costs to sustain the ongoing war. Burns suggested that walking away from the conflict and withdrawing support at this pivotal moment would be an “own goal of historic proportions,” employing a soccer metaphor to illustrate the magnitude of the mistake.
The urgency of Burns’ message is underscored by ongoing debates among lawmakers over a southern border deal that has implications for the $60 billion in aid earmarked for Ukraine.
The Biden administration has been actively encouraging lawmakers to expedite the deal’s approval, although a clear timeline for reaching an agreement remains elusive.
Burns’ public endorsement of assistance to Ukraine follows his clandestine visit to Kyiv earlier in the month, where he briefed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on expectations regarding Russia’s near-future plans, as reported by The Washington Post.
The CIA Director’s insights, gleaned from this visit, likely informed his perspective on the crucial nature of continued support for Ukraine.
In his column, Burns sought to convey the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict, framing it as an issue that extends beyond the immediate region. By characterizing the investment in Ukraine as a cost-effective measure with substantial geopolitical returns, he urged Western allies to recognize the strategic significance of ongoing assistance.
The column serves as a public call to action, urging policymakers to consider the potential ramifications of disengagement during this critical juncture in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
