Apr 23, 2024 - Politics & Policy

McConnell blasts “dithering and hesitation” on Ukraine aid

Stef W. Kight

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) returns to his office in the U.S. Capitol after delivering remarks on the Senate floor — Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) returns to his office in the U.S. Capitol. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) blasted Congress on Tuesday for taking its time to pass Ukraine aid — warning that the delay has made it harder for Ukraine to defend itself.

Why it matters: The floor speech came hours before the Senate is expected to vote on the $95 billion foreign aid package to finally send an emergency spending bill to President Biden's desk.

McConnell has been one of the loudest and most consistent proponents of continued aid to Ukraine, even as a growing segment of the Republican Party has grown skeptical of the U.S.'s continued support overseas.
He has vowed to fight the isolationist movement within his party in the Senate, even after he steps down from leadership.

What he's saying: "So much of the hesitation and short-sightedness that has delayed this moment is premised on sheer fiction," McConnell said from the Senate floor on Tuesday morning.

"I take no pleasure in rebutting misguided fantasies."
"Delay in providing Ukraine the weapons to defend itself has strained the prospects of defeating Russia aggression," McConnell continued. "Dithering and hesitation have compounded the challenges we face."
"I'll continue to hold the commander in chief to account," he said. "At the same time, I will not mince words when members of my own party take the responsibilities of American leadership lightly."

Add Axios on Google

McConnell blasts “dithering and hesitation” on Ukraine aid

What to read next