Mike Pence, the former Vice President of the United States, was met with negative reactions during his speech at a prominent conservative event in Iowa, where he advocated for the U.S.’s robust support of Ukraine.
Participating in a discussion with ex-Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson during a gathering organized by the Family Leader, the two clashed regarding Pence’s unwavering endorsement of U.S. aid for Ukraine amidst its conflict with invading Russian forces.
Pence conveyed his belief that providing the Ukrainian military with necessary resources to counteract Russia and reclaim their independence aligns with U.S. interests. However, his stance was met with displeasure by some attendees in Des Moines.
Contrarily, the crowd showed approval for Carlson, who expressed doubts about U.S. backing for Ukraine, arguing that domestic issues have escalated while the U.S. Congress and administration continue to finance Ukraine generously.
Carlson questioned Pence’s priorities, arguing that the deterioration of American cities over the last three years deserved more attention than foreign aid. Pence, however, dismissed this argument as a false equivalence.
He retorted that anyone believing the U.S. couldn’t be a global leader while also addressing domestic issues was underestimating the capacity of the nation, asserting, “We can do both.”
Their discussion further intensified when Carlson broached the topic of Christian persecution in Ukraine, a subject Pence stated he had addressed with a religious leader and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a recent trip to the country.
Pence has distinguished himself as a Republican presidential candidate strongly advocating aid to Ukraine, a stance that starkly contrasts with positions held by Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R), who question whether U.S. backing of Ukraine is truly beneficial for America.
Since Russia’s unprovoked invasion commenced in February 2022, the U.S. has supplied billions in military and financial aid to Kyiv. Pence has consistently argued that supporting Ukraine’s battle, while not directly involving America, is part of a larger global fight for freedom that aligns with U.S. interests.
He has criticized the Biden administration for the slow pace of military equipment provision to Ukraine for combatting Russian forces. He warned that if Ukraine falls to Russia, NATO countries could be next, forcing U.S. military intervention.
Pence clarified, “I never want to see American armed forces in Ukraine. I want to give the Ukrainian military what they need to fight and repel the Russian invasion.”
WATCH:
Tucker instantly ENDS Mike Pence’s career in 60 seconds:
Tucker nukes Pence on Ukraine aid: “Every city in the United States has become much worse over the last 3 years.. and your concern is the Ukrainians..” 🔥
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) July 14, 2023
