Staff Reports
Republican lawmakers issued a warning to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, urging him to reconsider any plans to send U.S. military advisers to Ukraine. Reps. Chip Roy of Texas, Matt Gaetz of Florida, and Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio penned a letter to Mr. Austin, posing several questions about the proposed mission.
With a touch of concern and a hint of sarcasm, they inquired if this mission would involve directly hiring personnel or contractors, and under what specific authorities it would be conducted. They reminded Mr. Austin that any harm to American personnel in Ukraine could lead to Article IV consultations or even a worrisome Article V collective security declaration by our NATO allies. These officials warned that such a military adviser mission would only escalate tensions and inch the United States closer to an unnecessary conflict with Russia.
GOP lawmakers press Pentagon about plans to send U.S. military advisers to Ukrainehttps://t.co/JijlTOJqXM pic.twitter.com/l4gTb0tc7t
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) September 28, 2023
Curiously, the Washington Times reached out to the Pentagon for comment but has not received a response as of yet. It seems the Biden administration has been toying with the idea of sending military advisers to Ukraine since last November. Supporters of this move argue that a U.S. military presence could bolster Ukraine’s efforts against the ongoing Russian invasion. Interestingly, various publications such as Foreign Affairs appear to be fanning the flames, urging the administration to take action.
It’s worth noting that the question of additional funding for Ukraine has become a contentious issue on Capitol Hill. A group of staunch conservatives in the House are unwilling to support spending bills that include aid for Ukraine. Clearly, the prospect of sending military advisers to Ukraine is triggering an intense debate among lawmakers, with both sides of the aisle having their say.
