House Dems Withdraw Letter To Biden Questioning Strategy In Ukraine
The Congressional Progressive Caucus announced Tuesday that they are withdrawing a letter sent to President Biden urging him to reconsider America's strategy in Ukraine.
The letter called for the U.S. to couple Ukrainian military aid with a renewed effort to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"Given the destruction created by this war for Ukraine and the world, as well as the risk of catastrophic escalation, we also believe it is in the interests of Ukraine, the United States, and the world to avoid a prolonged conflict," wrote members of the caucus. "For this reason, we urge you to pair the military and economic support the United States has provided to Ukraine with a proactive diplomatic push, redoubling efforts to seek a realistic framework for a ceasefire."
The letter was immediately met with backlash from both Democrats and Ukrainian officials, who argued it was unrealistic to negotiate with Putin.
The suggestion that we make concessions on behalf of Ukraine is presumptuous, out of touch, and would only embolden Putin.
— Seth Moulton (@sethmoulton) October 25, 2022
I’ve experienced the brutality of combat; no one wants to see this war end more than I do. But by giving Putin what he wants, it makes things worse. https://t.co/UbqSVP5BhE
The caucus is led by Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., who withdrew the letter in a statement.
Jayapal: “The Congressional Progressive Caucus hereby withdraws its recent letter to the White House regarding Ukraine.” pic.twitter.com/fQ6yJOXnRz
— Nolan D. McCaskill (@NolanDMcCaskill) October 25, 2022
The letter was signed by 30 lawmakers, including notable progressive Democratic Reps. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, and Cori Bush of Missouri.
According to the Washington Post, Democrats who signed the letter were not notified before its release, and many argued that the timing of the release was not ideal.
Timing in diplomacy is everything.
— Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (@RepSaraJacobs) October 25, 2022
I signed this letter on June 30, but a lot has changed since then. I wouldn't sign it today.
We have to continue supporting Ukraine economically and militarily to give them the leverage they need to end this war. https://t.co/jEJlTK1hJI
As the war in Ukraine continues to intensify, there has been growing debate regarding the amount of military and economic support the U.S. can continue to deliver. Many Republican lawmakers have called for further aid to be heavily reconsidered, as they weigh its effects on the U.S. economy.
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