Far-right Republicans, including MAGA supporters, criticized President Biden’s visit to Ukraine on Monday, arguing that his trip to support Kyiv is an “offense” to the American people.
Disregarding the conventional principle that politics should not extend beyond national borders, these lawmakers claimed that Biden is squandering taxpayer money by defending Ukraine against Russian aggression.
“The President of the United States chose Ukraine over America, while forcing the American people to pay for Ukraine’s government and war,” tweeted Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) “I can not express how much Americans hate Joe Biden.”
In an unusual move, Greene criticized Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his attire while welcoming the man whom she claims is widely disliked by Americans.
“He gladly takes our money in sweat shirts and t-shirts, but Biden is dressed up,” she tweeted. “So insulting. America Last!!!”
Representative Scott Perry (R-Pa.) drew a comparison between the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border and the effort to assist Ukraine in resisting Russia’s invasion.
“Breathtaking that President Biden can show up in Ukraine to ensure their border is secure, but can’t do the same for America,” Perry tweeted.
“On Presidents’ Day, I’m not surprised that Biden is ditching America for Ukraine,” added Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.)
Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who is being considered as a potential GOP presidential candidate in 2024, accused Biden of “neglecting” domestic issues by prioritizing support for Ukraine.
“He’s not done anything to secure our own borders here at home,” DeSantis said.
Representatives Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Greene are co-sponsoring the Ukraine Fatigue Act, which aims to reduce support for Ukraine, as the Russian invasion of its European neighbor enters its second year.
Their supporters, who are mostly backers of former President Donald Trump, have opposed helping Ukraine defend itself from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attack, saying that the best way to end the war is to force Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to cede territory to Russia.
However, congressional Republican leaders say that the party largely supports the fight against Putin’s war. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell visited Kyiv to express support for Zelenskyy, while Representative Michael McCaul (R-Texas), chair of the House Foreign Relations Committee, said he supports more aid for Ukraine, despite some tactical differences with the Biden administration.
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a potential 2024 GOP presidential candidate, criticized Biden for “neglecting” American problems in favor of supporting Ukraine.