In a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson emphasized the House’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. However, he also clarified that he expects a clear strategy and transparent oversight from the White House for future assistance.
During the meeting, Speaker Johnson expressed his solidarity with President Zelensky, condemning Putin’s brutal invasion and affirming that the American people stand for freedom and are on the right side of the fight. He stressed the need for a well-defined plan to enable Ukraine to achieve victory. He criticized the administration for requesting additional funding without sufficient oversight or a comprehensive strategy.
“We need a clear articulation of the strategy to ensure Ukraine’s success,” Speaker Johnson stated. “Unfortunately, the responses we have received so far have been inadequate. The White House has not provided the clarity and detail we have repeatedly requested since I assumed the role of Speaker of the House.”
Furthermore, Speaker Johnson voiced his concerns about national security spending and its connection to border security. He referred to the current conditions at the border as “catastrophic” under the Biden administration, citing record numbers of illegal crossings and a concerning number of apprehended terrorists. He firmly asserted that these issues are directly linked to current policies.
“Fentanyl, allowed to enter the country through the border, is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 49,” Speaker Johnson revealed. “We have to address the rampant human trafficking and other grave consequences. In the last three months alone, we’ve witnessed more illegal crossings than during any entire year of the Obama administration.”
Speaker Johnson called for a transformative approach to the Ukraine crisis and the U.S. border situation in light of these pressing matters. He urged the Senate and the White House to take immediate action.
“We need clarity regarding our actions in Ukraine and proper oversight of taxpayer dollars spent on behalf of the American citizens,” Speaker Johnson emphasized. “We also require transformative change at the border.”
Expressing his disappointment with the lack of progress, Speaker Johnson called out the Senate for their inaction and highlighted the House’s passage of HR two six months ago, which has since been stagnant on Chuck Schumer’s desk. He reiterated that these conditions are not solely the concerns of the House but rather shared by the American people. Urgency and a commitment to doing what is right are paramount.
“The responsibility lies with the White House and the Senate,” Speaker Johnson implored. “I urge them to fulfill their duties because time is of the essence, and we must act in the best interest of our nation.”
