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Concerns Over U.S. Support for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) expressed significant concerns on Sunday regarding the potential repercussions of halting aid and intelligence support to Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.

During an appearance on Fox News Channel’s “Fox News Sunday,” Graham remarked, “I am worried about cutting off intelligence and weapons to Ukraine as long as the fighting is going on.” He emphasized the dangers of withdrawing support, stating that doing so could have dire outcomes, suggesting, “If we pull the plug on Ukraine, it’d be worse than Afghanistan.” He acknowledged that he does not believe President Trump intends to take such a drastic step, but he insists that as long as hostilities continue, Ukraine should be provided with the necessary resources to defend itself.

Graham has voiced criticism regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s handling of a highly publicized Oval Office meeting with President Trump and Vice President Pence. During this encounter, Zelensky sought assurances about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s track record of violating ceasefire agreements. However, instead of support, Trump and Pence confronted Zelensky, accusing him of ingratitude toward U.S. assistance. This tense exchange was broadcasted live and highlighted the friction in U.S.-Ukraine relations.

The fallout from this meeting paused discussions about a potential deal that would allow the U.S. greater access to Ukraine’s rare earth mineral resources. Ukraine had been advocating for security guarantees in exchange for resource access, but the contentious meeting stalled these negotiations.

In a separate but related action, Trump decided to suspend U.S. military and intelligence support to Ukraine, a decision that has ignited questions among Republican lawmakers about the potential benefits of such a halt. Many are urging the Trump administration to reconsider this course of action.

Addressing the issue further, Graham announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at imposing severe sanctions on Russia if it does not engage in negotiations. “I will be introducing sanctions on their banking sector and their energy sector next week, urging them to get to the table if they don’t engage in ceasefire and peace talks with the administration,” Graham asserted. He is adamant about the need for a robust response, declaring, “We should sanction the hell out of them.”

Source
thehill.com