Senator Lindsey Graham warned that abandoning Ukraine would be “worse than Afghanistan,” amidst a shift in U.S. support due to President Trump’s favorable stance toward Russia. Recent U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine has paused, drawing concern from allies as peace negotiations are being facilitated. Future discussions in Saudi Arabia may determine the direction of U.S.-Ukraine relations and a potential peace deal.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, expressed concern about the potential abandonment of Ukraine amidst its war with Russia, warning it could be “worse than Afghanistan.” This statement reflects heightened anxiety over shifting U.S. foreign policy under President Trump, who has criticized Ukraine while favoring Russia.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine over three years ago, the U.S. has provided significant military and humanitarian aid. However, tensions rose after recent comments from Trump and Vice President JD Vance towards Ukrainian President Zelensky, leading to a temporary suspension in U.S. intelligence sharing crucial for Ukraine’s defense.
The suspension of intelligence sharing is part of a broader reassessment of U.S.-Ukraine relations by the Trump administration. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz indicated that this pause aims to review all aspects of the congressional decisions regarding Ukraine.
In a recent interview, Graham voiced worries about the halt in support while ongoing combat persists. He stressed the necessity of maintaining aid to Ukraine and highlighted the potentially dire consequences of cutting support, citing historical parallels to the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Graham criticized the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, which left many allies at risk, suggesting neglecting Ukraine could yield similar fallout. Trump’s negotiations with Putin are raising concerns about future U.S. backing for Ukraine, even as pressure for peace talks mounts.
On Friday, Trump mentioned considering sanctions against Russia amidst intensifying assaults on Ukraine. He urged immediate negotiations, illustrating his dual stance of supporting Ukraine while promoting discussions with Russia for peace.
The tension escalated during a White House meeting where Zelensky faced criticism for not thanking the U.S. sufficiently. Trump underscored the importance of securing U.S. interests in Ukraine’s minerals while pressing for a diplomatic resolution.
David Axelrod tweeted about the confusion surrounding Trump’s actions, juxtaposing condemnation of Russia with the withdrawal of intelligence support for Ukraine. Zelensky, addressing peace prospects, reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to collaborate closely with allies for achieving a swift resolution to the conflict.
Next week, U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential peace agreement. The focus will also include a possible economic deal regarding rare earth minerals to offset U.S. aid costs during the war.
Natalie Venegas is a Weekend Reporter at Newsweek with extensive experience covering various social and political issues.
Senator Lindsey Graham’s warning against abandoning Ukraine highlights the critical nature of U.S. support amidst ongoing conflict and shifting foreign policy dynamics under the Trump administration. As intelligence sharing pauses and potential negotiations with Russia intensify, the implications for Ukraine’s defense and the broader geopolitical landscape remain uncertain. Upcoming discussions in Saudi Arabia may shape future U.S.-Ukraine relations and peace prospects, particularly concerning valuable resources.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
