Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska recently expressed concern over the ongoing situation in Ukraine, emphasizing a strong stance against Russia’s aggression. In a recent poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos, a significant majority of Americans, around 70%, identified Russia as the main aggressor in the Ukraine conflict, rejecting the notion that Ukraine bears any substantial blame. This sentiment is especially prevalent among Republicans, with 62% agreeing that Russia is at fault.
Bacon took to social media to clarify his views, stating, “Overwhelmingly, Americans know who is at fault. Moral clarity is important.” His comments come as former President Donald Trump has attempted to negotiate a cease-fire between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a move that has garnered mixed reactions.
Trump recently criticized Zelensky, labeling him a “dictator” and asserting that Ukraine should never have initiated the war, despite the fact that Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. This characterization raises important questions about the perception of Ukraine’s government and the broader narrative surrounding the conflict.
Bacon has been one of the vocal proponents of supporting Ukraine within Congress. He reminded followers of the long-standing history of Russian aggression, recalling how Russia previously attempted to assassinate former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko using poison back in 2004. “The war in Ukraine didn’t start in 2022,” Bacon noted, highlighting that the roots of conflict with Russia run deep.
On another occasion, Bacon emphasized the ideological battle at play, stating, “Real Republicans know that Putin’s Russia hates the West and freedom. We also know that Ukraine wants democracy, free markets, and rule of law. We stand with right vs. evil.” Referencing figures like Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, and Dwight Eisenhower, he reiterated the importance of supporting those who strive for democracy and freedom.
While Trump has been critical of the current Ukrainian leadership, he threatened Russia with potential sanctions if it does not cease its attacks on Ukraine and engage in peace talks. This controversial approach raises concerns among many who believe in taking a firm stance against authoritarian regimes that threaten democratic nations.
In the wake of Trump’s refusal to fully support Zelensky during a recent White House meeting, the rift between the two leaders has been evident. Zelensky visited Washington to discuss a mineral deal intended to bolster economic ties between the US and Ukraine. However, this meeting ended without a concrete agreement, leading some congressional Republicans to side with Trump, viewing his actions as protection of American interests.
Bacon, however, described the situation as “a bad day for America’s foreign policy,” emphasizing that the values upheld by Ukraine are aligned with those of the United States. He stated, “Ukraine wants independence, free markets, and rule of law. It wants to be part of the West. Russia hates us and our Western values. We should be clear that we stand for freedom.”
Interestingly, public sentiment regarding a proposed mineral fund partnership with Ukraine appears divided. While 73% of Republicans support the idea that the US should have a stake in Ukraine’s minerals, a larger portion of Democrats, around 75%, oppose it.
As Bacon pushes for a clear stance on foreign policy, the landscape remains complex, with ongoing debates about the best approach to take in response to Russia’s aggressive actions. The Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted earlier this month surveyed 1,174 US adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3%.
Looking ahead, it is crucial for American leadership to reaffirm its commitment to allies that share democratic values and to firmly oppose aggression from authoritarian regimes. The conversation surrounding Ukraine is not just about a nation under siege; it touches on the fundamental principles of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law that are vital to the wider world.
