Elena Buturlim18:40, 03/19/24
They want to provide part of the funds from $60 billion as a loan.
Republicans in the US Congress are seriously considering providing at least part of the aid in the form of a loan as one possible solution to the months-long struggle to support Ukraine, Politico writes .
It is noted that such an idea has been discussed for several weeks, inspired by recent statements by former President Donald Trump. But now this possibility is taken much more seriously. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) hinted at a new strategy, writing that during a meeting in Kyiv with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he discussed the prospect of an “interest-free loan that can be waived.”
The loan option is also being seriously considered in the US House of Representatives, where aid to Ukraine has been at a standstill for several months. Some Republicans picked up the idea and proposed it to Speaker Mike Johnson. The speaker, according to people familiar with it, said to prepare a proposal, discuss it with colleagues, and then – if the conference approves – perhaps they will implement it.VIDEO OF THE DAYPlay Video
According to reporters, GOP views on structuring the loan agreement go something like this: While President Joe Biden has asked for $60 billion for Ukraine, most of that money—$48 billion—will be pumped back into the U.S. defense industrial base. The weapons will eventually go to Ukraine, but the money will support American jobs.
“This leaves about $12 billion that could be sent directly to Ukraine. According to Republicans, this amount could be provided in the form of a loan at low interest or no interest at all,” the article says.
The authors also point out that some Republicans are in touch with Trump’s circle to see if the former president might endorse the idea. It is unclear whether Democrats will agree to this plan. Some of them have objected to the loan idea in the past. But Republicans believe they will agree eventually.
Providing loans that can be waived could also reduce some of the worries. One senior Democrat told Politico that party members want to find a solution for Ukraine and are willing to participate in negotiations if it helps move the needle.
“Everyone is willing to talk if people are acting with good intentions. The question is, are they trying to reach some kind of real solution?” he said.
US assistance
Earlier, UNIAN wrote that the House of Representatives may send its own bill on assistance to Ukraine, which will differ significantly from that approved by the US Senate. Johnson proposed turning the aid into a loan or Lend-Lease program.
However, the new military funding bill for Kyiv, announced by Speaker of the US House of Representatives Mike Johnson, has many questions .
(C)UNIAN 2024
I am totally not interested in what kind of form the aid will be given, as long the package is 60 billion dollars in weapons.
After an Ukrainian Victory the loan will be forgotten…………………………………….
No doubt Sir Veth, lend lease it, no interest loan it get it 🤬 done NOW!! 😠😤
There must be enough descent Republicans finally willing to vote with the Dems in favor of an aid-package. America’s reputation is already in ruins. 😡
The most disgusting thing about this article: “…some Republicans are in touch with Trump’s circle to see if the former president might endorse…” . This is not how representation, “by the people”, is supposed to work.
That’s what I kept saying. This is totally undemocratic! It’s closer to despotism.
If those “Republicans” have to ask their orange master to see if this okay, they should just go to hell and burn in it. I don’t know why the American people and prosecutors or whoever isn’t totally upset by such despicable undemocratic behavior by those semi-fascist assholes.
“Delays in U.S. lethal aid have already negatively impacted the battlefield in Ukraine.”
Look at the possible future if nothing is done in Congress:
Congress, let the white marble of the Capitol remain immaculate and not reddened with Ukrainian blood. We implore you to vote for this aid for Ukraine.