Kevin McCarthy, the House Speaker, is opposing additional spending for Ukraine, setting him at odds with Senate Republicans who are advocating for more funds. This disagreement arose after President Biden signed a debt-ceiling deal into law, which increased discretionary military spending by 3% in 2024. If Congress fails to pass all 12 appropriations bills by the year-end, there is a chance of a 1% decrease from the fiscal 2023 levels. Many Senate Republicans, including Senator Lindsey Graham, are unhappy with these terms and demand a commitment to pass another bill for additional funding.
The argument for more funding is based on the need to support Ukraine in countering Russia and strengthening the United States against potential threats from China, particularly regarding Taiwan. McCarthy expressed his support for Ukraine but resisted pursuing an additional spending package, accusing senators of trying to bypass the previous agreement. He stated that proponents would need to clearly justify any additional funding, including detailing how previous funds were used and outlining the plan for achieving victory.
McCarthy also declared that he would not schedule a floor vote on a supplemental military-spending bill if it passes in the Senate. His comments highlight the delicate balance he must maintain as he tries to appease defense-focused Republicans and anti-interventionist party members. Some Republicans who oppose financial aid to Ukraine are also considering removing McCarthy as House Speaker.
Furthermore, during a procedural vote related to gas-stove rules and other regulations, far-right House Republicans utilized their influence to block the vote in protest against the debt-ceiling law, which they believed did not meet their cost-cutting objectives. In the closely divided House, Republican leaders failed to approve a procedural vote on a rule for the first time this year.
Some Republican critics of funding for Ukraine share the frustrations of a portion of their party, believing that domestic issues like border security should be prioritized. Despite opposition, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell asserts that providing assistance to Ukraine is crucial in diminishing Russia’s threat to both Europe and the United States. He believes it acts as a deterrent against possible aggressors. McConnell also highlights the positive impact on America’s defense industry.
The Pentagon has already sent significant security assistance to Ukraine, amounting to nearly $40 billion since the start of the conflict. An accounting error of up to $3 billion was discovered recently, potentially providing more flexibility for additional aid. Pentagon officials clarify that this error does not affect what has been provided to Ukraine so far. Still, the additional funds could allow for more weaponry before the money runs out.
In the fiscal year 2023, the Pentagon received $36 billion for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. As of May, there were still several billion dollars remaining in that account for long-term security assistance through the defense industry. The ongoing debate over funding for Ukraine raises uncertainties about the future outlook for financial support. Congress has already authorized a significant amount of assistance, totaling $113 billion, encompassing military, economic, and humanitarian aid since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year. Both Republican and Democratic supporters expect that additional funding will be necessary later this year.