The ongoing conflict that Ukraine faces with Russia over land has resulted in devastating consequences for the Ukrainian people, such as losing homes, family members or fearing for their life. As the United States and Ukraine are both part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), there are implications as if any of the 31 countries enter war, the others will assist whether financially or with firearms.
As the United States has a history of supporting democratic nations in their efforts to uphold their territorial integrity, by aiding Ukraine, the United States by its commitment to support nations, chose the path of democracy and self-determination.
However, when does helping another country impact the lives of the American people?
Since the war began on Feb. 24, 2022, the Biden administration and Congress have spent over 75 billion dollars in alliance and assistance to Ukraine. Although the money that the United States gave to Ukraine went towards humanitarian aid, finances, and military support, the Biden administration needs to prioritize the financial discrepancies that the United States is facing. Currently, the United States has one of the largest debts in the world, increasing to 32.91 trillion dollars, with rising homeless crises and natural disasters in several states in the United States. Rather than painting the United States as the helping arm, that is picture-perfect, the Biden administration must look beneath the surface and realize that American citizens are in need of assistance.
Of course assisting another country is ideal and the goal, but a country must notice when they are the ones who need assistance as well. As the United States is becoming more and more unstable, especially with the current economy preventing many from receiving jobs, employees need stipends or financial support. Instead of providing Ukraine with more financial help, the United States should utilize that money towards our homeless crisis and the discrepant economy.
According to President Washington’s farewell address, he emphasized that the United States should not be in between two nations at war, as it eliminates the United States’ relations towards the side they do not choose. For instance, in the Ruso-Ukrainian war, the United States chose a stance with Ukraine, we inherent all if not most of Ukraine’s enemies. For our best interest, the United States must remain neutral to protect and prevent any issues in future trading or relations.
Since the United States voiced how they were going to assist Ukraine, the energy prices have escalated. From gas to oil, Americans are struggling to pay the new inflated costs. Joining the war for alliances has ultimately prevented the United States from prospering and growing as a nation.
In the face of ongoing conflict and Russian aggression, the United States must carefully consider its role in eliminating its financial support in Ukraine’s defense efforts. By continuing to provide funding and assistance to the American people, the United States not only stands up for its democratic values but pictures themselves as regional stability to other nations.
