Senate Minority Leader (R-Ky.) expressed his support for President Biden’s stance on combining Ukraine and Israel aid in an interview aired on Sunday. However, McConnell acknowledged their differing opinions on domestic matters.
During an appearance on CBS’s , Margaret Brennan asked McConnell about passing aid for Ukraine without tying it to Israel, as some Republicans are hesitant to support additional aid for Ukraine.
McConnell responded, “I think that’s a mistake. I see it all as interconnected, although there are Republicans in the Senate, and potentially more in the House, who view Ukraine differently.”
McConnell also countered fellow Republicans who oppose providing more aid to Ukraine, arguing that the funds are mainly being spent in the United States, stimulating weapon production.
He stated, “No Americans are losing their lives in Ukraine. We’re bolstering our industrial base. The Ukrainians are weakening one of our biggest adversaries. I don’t see anything wrong with that. It’s great that they’re defending themselves, especially considering Europe’s insufficient contribution.”
Furthermore, McConnell emphasized that he and Biden generally align on funding Ukraine and Israel, although their worldviews may not coincide on other issues.
“Well, perhaps not in terms of domestic matters, but when it comes to the topic we’re discussing today, we’re mostly on the same page,” McConnell explained.
The United States already provides substantial assistance to Israel yearly, with approximately $3.8 billion allocated per annum. This figure originates from a 10-year memorandum of understanding amounting to $38 billion. Last week, Biden announced his intent to submit an urgent budget request to Congress, seeking additional aid for Israel and Ukraine, estimated to total $100 billion.
“When we utilize the funding approved by Congress, we use it to replenish our own supplies, our own stockpile with new equipment,” stated the president. “This equipment defends America and is manufactured within our own borders. For instance, we have Patriot missiles for air defense batteries made in Arizona, and artillery shells produced in twelve states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas. The list goes on.”
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
