Staff Reports
President Biden’s recent policy decision to allow Ukraine to deploy U.S.-supplied long-range missiles against Russia is raising eyebrows among conservatives. While some progressive media outlets cheer on this move as a bold step in the fight against tyranny, many on the right see it as yet another example of the administration’s willingness to escalate tensions without considering the implications for American interests. It appears that the plan is to hand over a big stick to Ukraine and hope the bully backs down in the schoolyard.
Conservative commentators are drawing attention to the fact that sending advanced weaponry to Ukraine doesn’t come without consequences. There’s an argument to be made that this decision could entangle the United States deeper into the conflict, something conservatives have been warning about for well over a year. History shows us that escalating a conflict often leads to unintended consequences, especially when a far-off country is involved. Many wonder if Ukraine will be the next Vietnam, or if we’re simply opening a Pandora’s box that will lead to more turmoil in Eastern Europe.
The logistics of supplying long-range missiles can’t be overlooked either. With the ongoing supply chain issues plaguing the U.S., shooting advanced weapons across the Atlantic Ocean—where they’ll end up in a warzone—is bound to lead to questions about efficiency and safety. Conservatives would point out that prioritizing domestic issues and ensuring that American military bases are well-stocked should take precedence before indulging in overseas affairs that don’t directly defend the homeland.
President Biden’s risky move to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles: Letters to the Editor — Nov. 22, 2024 https://t.co/1YKj0drWjX pic.twitter.com/PwPfpftTEc
— NY Post Opinion (@NYPostOpinion) November 21, 2024
The current administration is also stirring the pot with its claims of support for democracy. Many conservative voices argue that this is less about aiding a democratic ally and more about trying to redirect attention away from domestic challenges like inflation and border security. It becomes apparent that the more Democrats can play the international hero, the easier it is for them to sidestep pressing issues back home, giving conservativism yet another reason to roll its collective eyes.
Moreover, as the U.S. continues to pour resources into international conflicts, right-wing skeptics are reminding everyone that American taxpayers would prefer their hard-earned money be spent on rebuilding infrastructure rather than blowing up bridges in Ukraine or fueling a war that may not directly be their concern. If this assistance is about “defending democracy,” one can’t help but wonder when Democrats plan on focusing on the democratic principles they seem to apply selectively—like keeping American citizens safe and secure in their own country. The irony is thick, and for many conservatives, it’s just another chapter in the ongoing saga of America’s foreign policy blunders.
