Should Congress Stop Funding the War in Ukraine?

Topics: Politics, U.S., World

Debate Date: April 12, 2024

This debate was recorded live for an invite-only audience at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York City.

Since the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the United States has provided more than $75 billion in aid to Ukraine, which has been directed toward military operations, economic support, and humanitarian assistance. As the war has gone on, members of Congress have questioned whether we have done enough to help the country and if continuing funding is sustainable.

Those who want to continue funding Ukraine say the U.S. has a moral obligation to support the country in its time of need, it sustains alliances while serving strategic interests, and it demonstrates the United States's support of democratic values and sovereignty. Those arguing it’s time to end the funding say that it diverts necessary resources that could go toward domestic and foreign priorities. They also question whether the funds are being used efficiently, whether the war is winnable, and whether providing military aid is genuinely contributing to a path toward peace.

With this crucial background, we debate the question: Should Congress Stop Funding the War in Ukraine?

ARGUING YES:

• John Mearsheimer: Political Science Professor at the University of Chicago

• Daniel L. Davis: Retired Lieutenant Colonel, Senior Fellow and Military Expert at Defense Priorities

ARGUING NO:

• Heather Conley: President of German Marshall Fund of the United States

• Paula Dobriansky: Former Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs; Senior Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs; Vice Chair, Atlantic Council Scowcroft Center for Strategy & Security

MODERATOR-IN-CHIEF:

• John Donvan: Emmy award-winning journalist