Lindsey Graham Warns Against Abandoning Ukraine Amid Russian Conflict

Senator Lindsey Graham warns that ceasing support for Ukraine would be ‘worse than Afghanistan,’ emphasizing the importance of continued military and intelligence aid as Russia’s invasion persists. Recent U.S. policy shifts raise concerns, with intelligence sharing and military support paused. Upcoming discussions in Saudi Arabia aim to negotiate a peace deal and explore economic agreements regarding Ukraine’s minerals to support U.S. aid efforts.

Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, recently cautioned against the potential withdrawal of support from Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia, asserting that such a decision would be “worse than Afghanistan.” He emphasized the importance of continued U.S. support, which includes military and intelligence aid, to effectively assist Ukraine in its defense efforts against Russian aggression.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine three years ago, the United States has provided considerable military and humanitarian support to Ukraine. However, concerns have arisen regarding a shift in U.S. policy under President Donald Trump, who has expressed favorable views towards Russia, which has unsettled NATO and Ukraine’s allies.

The recent pause in intelligence sharing between the U.S. and Ukraine has raised alarms among those concerned about Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. This halt in crucial battlefield intelligence has occurred amid intensified scrutiny following a contentious meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which may have contributed to a strained diplomatic relationship during a critical time.

In an interview, Senator Graham expressed his concern about the implications of witholding assistance, stating, “the goal is to end the war honorably and justly” and stressing the critical need for U.S. support while fighting continues. He also identified the importance of maintaining military and intelligence support to empower Ukraine’s defense measures during the conflict.

Graham’s remarks also draw a parallel to the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, which led to the swift return of Taliban control and significant humanitarian consequences for Afghan allies who had worked with the U.S. This historical reference highlights the potential repercussions of an abrupt end to U.S. support in Ukraine.

As discussions regarding a ceasefire continue, Trump has called for increased sanctions against Russia in light of ongoing attacks against Ukraine. He also urged a quick resolution to the conflict, implying that swift action on peace discussions could avert further escalation.

Amid the ongoing negotiations, both U.S. officials and Ukrainians are set to convene in Saudi Arabia soon to outline the terms for a potential peace agreement and to discuss a deal concerning Ukraine’s valuable mineral resources, which could aid in funding U.S. support efforts.

Senator Lindsey Graham’s warnings underscore the potential risks associated with altering U.S. support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. With Russia’s invasion persisting, the recent suspension of intelligence sharing and military aid has provoked concerns about the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations. As negotiations continue regarding a ceasefire, the need for a robust strategy that empowers Ukraine remains paramount, drawing critical lessons from past foreign policy experiences.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com