Sen. Mitt Romney, U.S. Senator for Utah | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Sen. Mitt Romney, U.S. Senator for Utah | Official U.S. Senate headshot
U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) delivered a passionate speech on the Senate floor today, urging his colleagues to support sending additional aid to Ukraine. He emphasized the dire consequences that failing to do so would bring, warning that if the United States fails to help Ukraine, it would result in Putin invading a NATO nation and China eventually absorbing Taiwan.
Romney stressed the importance of the upcoming vote to provide military weapons for Ukraine, stating that it is the most critical vote that the United States senators will ever take. He clarified that they are not being asked to send American troops into war but rather to assist the Ukrainians in defending themselves.
The senator highlighted the broader implications of failing to support Ukraine, stating that it would lead to the disintegration of NATO, the alliance that has prevented great power conflict for over 75 years. He further asserted that America would cease to be the arsenal of democracy and lose its position as the leader of the free world, allowing authoritarian regimes such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea to take the lead.
Romney addressed various arguments that have been raised against providing aid to Ukraine. He debunked the claim that Europe was not paying its fair share, citing the substantial contributions already made by allies. He also refuted the notion that supporting Ukraine would compromise America's defense capabilities, as the Department of Defense has explained that it would actually strengthen national security.
The senator expressed concern over the latest excuse for denying aid to Ukraine, which suggests that the bill is a ploy to set up an impeachment of former President Donald Trump in the future. He called on his fellow Republicans to reconsider their position if it is being cheered by Vladimir Putin, stating, "If your position is being cheered by Vladimir Putin, it's time to reconsider your position."
In his speech, Romney emphasized the importance of standing up to Putin and not allowing him to have his way with Europe. He argued that sending weapons to Ukraine would discourage further aggression from Russia and China and help preserve NATO. It would also demonstrate America's commitment to honoring its word to friends and allies.
Quoting Lech Wałęsa, the first democratically-elected president of Poland since 1926, Romney emphasized the need for the United States to lead in ensuring a peaceful future. He concluded by stating, "Helping a free people defend their freedom is simply the right thing to do."
Senator Mitt Romney's plea for support in providing aid to Ukraine comes at a critical time when tensions between Russia and Ukraine are high. The decision made by the United States Senate will have significant implications not only for Ukraine but for the stability of Europe and America's position in the world.