Senators Shaheen and Graham Debate Ukraine Aid and Rescission Bill

Amendment to Protect Ukraine Aid

• 🇺🇦 Senator Jeanne Shaheen introduced an amendment to strike the rescission of funds to Ukraine from a Republican bill.
• 💡 Shaheen emphasized that now is not the time to cut funds, as they have been crucial for rebuilding Ukraine's energy grid, sustaining agricultural exports, and supporting anti-corruption efforts.
• 🎯 The amendment aims to preserve assistance to keep Ukraine's energy grid online, prevent economic collapse, and maintain its western economic orientation.
• ✅ This amendment has the support of Senators Murkowski and Durbin.

Senator Graham's Response and Alternative Approach

• 🗣️ Senator Lindsey Graham stated his desire to help Ukraine but questioned the rescission of a $460 million account.
• 💰 Graham pointed out that significant aid, including military assistance, loan authority, and drawdown authority, would remain available.
• ✈️ He highlighted specific items within the rescinded account, such as funds for promoting tourism and social media mentorship, and green transportation logistics.
• 🇺🇸 Graham suggested that the best way to help Ukraine is by having Europeans buy American weapons for Ukraine, benefiting the American economy and taxpayer.
• 🚫 He also advocated for pressuring China, India, and Brazil to stop buying Russian oil, which he described as "blood money" propping up Putin's war machine.