Senators from both parties push Hegseth for action on Ukraine aid
Summary
A group of senators from both parties is urging Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to release $600 million in security aid for Ukraine and eastern European allies. They are concerned about delays and stress the importance of continued U.S. support amid ongoing conflict with Russia.Key Facts
- Congress approved $600 million in aid last year: $400 million for Ukraine and $200 million for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promised a spending plan by May 15 but missed the deadline.
- Senators from both parties, including Dick Durbin, Chuck Grassley, Kevin Cramer, Thom Tillis, Michael Bennet, and Catherine Cortez Masto, signed a letter demanding action.
- The senators warn that delays and planned U.S. troop withdrawals could weaken efforts to deter Russia.
- Some Republicans are frustrated with President Trump’s administration’s handling of Ukraine aid and related policies.
- Defense Secretary Hegseth recently fired Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George, who had advocated for new military strategies including drone use.
- In the House, a bipartisan proposal seeks $1 billion in military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia but faces an uncertain future.
- The current $400 million aid is small compared to earlier multi-billion-dollar packages after Russia’s invasion.
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