IS THE U.S. WRITING UKRAINE A BLANK CHECK?

THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION FACES CRITICISM

OVER UNRESTRICTED SUPPORT

During a November 10, 2024, interview on CBS's Face the Nation, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan discussed the Biden administration's commitment to an almost limitless financial and military backing of Ukraine. Sullivan's remarks have reignited concerns that the U.S. is effectively providing Ukraine with a "blank check," a position that many argue is fiscally unsustainable and strategically questionable.

Sullivan stated, "Our approach remains the same as it's been for the last two and a half years, which is to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position on the battlefield so that it is ultimately in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table." While this reiterates the administration's ongoing support, it's worth noting that the lack of defined limits on aid raises questions about the long-term strategy and oversight of taxpayer funds.

With approximately $6 billion in remaining authorized funds for Ukraine, Sullivan confirmed the administration's intent to deplete these resources, stating, "We have the resources to continue to supply Ukraine with the weapons and equipment it needs through the remainder of this year and into the beginning of next year." Critics have taken issue with this statement, viewing it as an acknowledgment of a "spend-it-all" mentality with little apparent accountability.

Sullivan further emphasized the need for long-term support, declaring, "President Biden will make the case that we do need ongoing resources for Ukraine beyond the end of his term." This statement has raised alarms among people who fear the administration is committing future U.S. leaders to an open-ended engagement without a clear exit strategy. With such boundless support, it risks diverting attention and resources from pressing domestic issues with American taxpayers footing the bill.

Jake Sullivan on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 10, 2024 Video (Face the Nation YouTube, 11-10-24)

Jake Sullivan on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 10, 2024 Transcript (CBS News, 11-10-24)