Speaker Johnson Blocks Biden’s Latest Move

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House Speaker Mike Johnson has called for a pause in additional aid to Ukraine until President-elect Donald Trump is inaugurated. Johnson, representing Louisiana, argued that decisions on further support for Ukraine should be made by Trump once he assumes office in January. Speaking at a press conference, he emphasized that Trump’s election will change the dynamics of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and thus, President Joe Biden should not make decisions regarding Ukraine’s aid during this transitional period.

Johnson’s stance reflects growing Republican concern over the Biden administration’s ongoing requests for military and security assistance to Ukraine. The administration has sought $8 billion in security aid for Ukraine, including military equipment, training, and other resources, while the Department of Defense (DOD) has requested an additional $16 billion for Ukraine’s defense efforts.

Meanwhile, Trump has repeatedly stated his intent to end the war in Ukraine as soon as possible, even before taking office. In a September statement, Trump suggested he could secure a resolution to the war during his presidential transition, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. He also criticized Biden’s handling of the situation, including the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, which Trump argued set a precedent that encouraged Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that the war could end if Ukraine were guaranteed NATO protection while pursuing diplomatic solutions to regain Russian-occupied territories. However, such a proposal would be rejected by Russia, further complicating the conflict.

The Biden administration’s authorization of long-range weapons for Ukraine, which could be used to strike Russian territory, has further escalated tensions. This move was seen as a significant step in the conflict, especially as Russia has warned that any escalation could prompt the use of nuclear weapons. Biden’s decision to approve these actions came after Trump’s election victory, giving the incoming administration a more challenging situation to manage. Reports also suggest that North Korean troops have been sent to support Russian forces in Ukraine, heightening concerns over the conflict’s broader implications.