In Washington, DC political battles are nothing new, but the selective infighting between Republicans and Democrats over Ukraine aid could have serious implications on the passage of the 2020 Defense Spending bill. The bill has already been derailed three times as both sides are unable to come to an agreement.
The current Defense Spending bill is set to provide a $700 billion budget and includes funds for provisions that the Administration deems necessary for national security. A portion of this bill is set aside for military and public aid to Ukraine, however the differing views between the Republican and Democratic parties have hindered its passage.
Democrats believe that providing military aid to Ukraine is the best weapon against Russian aggression and interference in the country. Republicans disagree and argue that aid should be allotted on merit, and that Ukraine is ultimately responsible for its security.
Meanwhile, both sides continue to use the bill as a pawn in their political agenda, and recently the Senate failed to reach an agreement on the three-week spending bill after negotiations over the Ukraine provision were once again brought up.
This situation calls to question the ability of both sides to reach a consensus when it comes to such important matters, and it affects not only the Defense Spending bill but the future of US relations with Ukraine.
As the debate operates in political circles, the people of both countries are ultimately the ones that suffer. A foreign policy that lacks the bipartisanship and understanding over Ukraine’s web of complexities and political turmoil will only lead to further divide in an already tense global situation.
With the current infighting continuing to derail the defense bill’s passage, the only solution left is for legislators to reach a bipartisan agreement in the coming weeks. Without a unified approach, the consequences could have serious ramifications not only for the future of US foreign policy but for the security of both countries.
