Several high-profile Republicans are pushing back against Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis’ argument that aiding Ukraine in fending off Russian invading forces isn’t a vital national interest.
In response to a questionnaire sent by Fox News host Tucker Carlson, DeSantis, who has reportedly told allies in private that he plans to run for president in 2024, declared that “becoming further entangled in a territorial dispute between Ukraine and Russia is not” of vital interest to the US.
During an appearance on the “Hugh Hewitt Show” on Tuesday, Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) argued that Russia’s interest in Ukraine is not so much about territory but rather dominating the former Soviet state.
Haley Accuses DeSantis of Copying Trump’s View on Ukraine
Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley took a swipe at DeSantis on Tuesday, accusing the Florida governor of “copying” former President Donald Trump’s stance on Ukraine and mirroring the e-commander-in-chief in other ways as well. Haley stated that “America is far better off with a Ukrainian victory than a Russian victory” and that Republicans deserve a choice, not an echo.
Graham: Giving in to Putin in Ukraine Is Disastrous
A day after DeSantis’ comments, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a staunch supporter of the US providing military aid to Ukraine, tweeted, “When it comes to Putin, you either pay now or pay later.”
The GOP senator, who has called on the Biden administration to arm Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, added that Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to have committed numerous war crimes during his invasion of Ukraine and allowing him to succeed in conquering the European nation “invites aggression by China against Taiwan.”
Cheney: Surrendering to Putin Makes America Less Safe
Former Representative Liz Cheney (R-Wy.) accused DeSantis of “weakness” Tuesday and of having “forgotten the lessons of Ronald Reagan” in her pointed criticism of his remarks on the Ukraine war.
Cheney stated that surrendering to Putin and refusing to defend freedom makes America less safe. “Weakness is provocative, and American officials who advocate this type of weakness are Putin’s greatest weapon,” she added.
“Abandoning Ukraine would make broader conflict, including with China and other American adversaries, more likely.”
DeSantis’ Standing in Early 2024 Polls
DeSantis’ provocative comments come as he is said to be considering a presidential run in 2024. He is currently averaging 29% support in early 2024 polls, according to RealClearPolitics, behind Trump’s 45% support.
»Republican Push Back Against DeSantis’ View on Ukraine«
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