Senator Lindsey Graham warned that abandoning Ukraine would be “worse than Afghanistan” amidst U.S. intelligence sharing suspensions and the evolving U.S. support policies under President Trump. The situation is compounded by tensions during Trump’s dealings with Ukrainian President Zelensky. Future discussions in Saudi Arabia may outline a peace deal and economic pact for resource management in Ukraine.
On Sunday, Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, cautioned against the repercussions of abandoning Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. He asserted that such an action would be “worse than Afghanistan.” Graham’s sentiments arise following a notable suspension of U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine, attributed to tensions between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Graham remains a steadfast advocate for Ukraine, despite occasionally voicing opposition to some of Trump’s policies that affect U.S. support for the nation.
Since Russia initiated its invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, the United States has provided considerable military and humanitarian assistance. However, President Trump has made statements indicating a potential shift in U.S. policy concerning Ukraine. His past praises for Russian President Vladimir Putin and criticisms of Ukraine have raised concerns within NATO and among U.S. allies.
The temporary cessation of intelligence sharing, which has contributed significantly to Ukraine’s defense efforts, follows a public exchange between Trump and Zelensky where the latter was admonished for not sufficiently acknowledging the United States’ support. According to a senior administration official, this pause is part of a comprehensive reassessment of U.S.-Ukraine relations. Intelligence has played a crucial role in enabling Ukraine to respond effectively to Russian military actions.
During an appearance on Fox News, Senator Graham addressed his concerns regarding the suspension of intelligence. He emphasized the importance of supplying Ukraine with necessary resources to defend itself until a ceasefire is achieved. Graham expressed worry that ending support abruptly would replicate the consequences seen following the Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021, where the Taliban regained power shortly after the U.S. withdrawal. He noted that cutting off aid could have dire ramifications for millions involved in the conflict.
Moreover, Trump’s ongoing negotiations with Putin only add to the uncertainty surrounding U.S. support for Ukraine. The president recently indicated a potential consideration of new sanctions against Russia, following an escalation in attacks on Ukraine. This development adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions for a peace agreement, with U.S. and Ukrainian officials scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia soon.
The recent White House meeting, marked by a notable tension between Trump and Zelensky, underscored the urgency for Ukraine to align more closely with U.S. interests, particularly regarding her mineral resources. Both Trump and Vice President Vance openly pressured Zelensky to expedite a resolution while also identifying the stakes involved for their respective nations.
Political commentator David Axelrod highlighted the confusion surrounding the recent U.S. intelligence suspension amid heightened Russian aggression. In turn, President Zelensky expressed a readiness to collaborate 24/7 with U.S. and European partners to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Meanwhile, U.S. special envoy for the Middle East conveyed that discussions for a potential peace agreement are underway, indicating a possible shift in diplomatic engagement surrounding Ukraine’s future.
Looking ahead, U.S. and Ukrainian officials will convene in Saudi Arabia to explore the framework for a peace deal, which may also encompass a new economic security pact, positioning the U.S. with rights to extract valuable minerals from Ukraine, thus enabling recouping of war-related aid expenses.
Senator Lindsey Graham has voiced strong concerns regarding the consequences of withdrawing support from Ukraine, asserting it could lead to a scenario reminiscent of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The ongoing review of U.S.-Ukraine relations comes amid heightened tensions and public exchanges between President Trump and President Zelensky. As both parties prepare to discuss potential peace agreements, the future of U.S. support and the strategic path forward remain uncertain and critical.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
