Former Vice President Mike Pence urged House lawmakers to approve more funding for Ukraine and warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin may go after a NATO nation if Russia triumphs in its war with Kyiv.
Pence, in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, stated that based on his meeting with Putin, he is certain that if Putin takes over Ukraine, it won't be long before he invades a NATO country, leading to the involvement of U.S. troops under Article 5.
He explained that this would result in U.S. troops entering the conflict under Article 5, which stipulates that an attack on a NATO member in Europe or North America is considered an attack against all members.
The House is under pressure to approve more funding for Ukraine as disagreements among lawmakers delay aid for the war-torn nation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is working to advance a series of foreign aid bills that include funding for Ukraine, Israel, allies in the Indo-Pacific, and other national security priorities. Votes on separate parts of the package are anticipated this weekend.
Certain members of the House’s right flank have voiced opposition to the bills, arguing that funding should be directed towards security measures at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Pence called on his former colleagues on Capitol Hill to recognize the U.S. as the leader of the free world and to show support for various allies, including Israel, Taiwan, and to send a strong message to leaders in Russia, Iran, and China.
Pence commended Johnson's efforts to push for foreign aid despite facing opposition from some right-wing members of his conference.
Pence praised Johnson’s determination to do what he believes is right and expressed his support for his actions.
Pence, who was a Republican presidential candidate at the time.
with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a surprise trip to the Eastern European country last June. met He has consistently expressed support for Ukraine, in contrast to former President Trump, who has stated he would end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours if elected president. has argued He has repeatedly vocalized support for Ukraine, unlike his former boss, former President Trump.