Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) addressed the Senate floor, emphasizing the repercussions of withholding aid to Ukraine on Vladimir Putin's actions.

McConnell highlighted Putin's response to reports of ammunition shortages in Ukraine, quoting the Russian President directly: “It would be ridiculous for us to start negotiating with Ukraine just because it’s running out of ammunition.”

He went on to assert, “Withholding critical weapons has not helped manage Putin’s escalation – it has only emboldened him.” McConnell criticized the previous administration for hesitating in the face of Russian aggression, which he believes only served to strengthen Putin's position.

The Senator stressed the importance of providing lethal assistance to Ukraine, stating, “Equipping Ukraine for battlefield success is the surest way to help our friends resolve this war from a position of strength.” McConnell argued that supporting Ukraine in confronting their adversary also serves America's interests and reinforces the nation's defense capabilities.

In urging action, McConnell called upon the House to consider the Senate-passed national security supplemental, emphasizing the need to bolster Ukraine and invest in the country's military while enhancing America's defense capabilities.

McConnell concluded by reiterating the severity of the situation, stating, “Whether or not you’re willing to take the architect of a neo-Soviet empire at his word, the facts remain the same.” The Senator's message underscored the importance of standing firm in support of Ukraine and against Putin's aggressive ambitions.