Republican Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska strongly criticized his fellow lawmakers who are against providing more financial support for Ukraine. He argued that they hope for Russia to win the war against Kyiv that has been going on for over two years.
Bacon expressed his concerns in an interview with C-SPAN, stating, "Right now, Ukraine has run out of artillery. If we don't take action, the Russians will take over Kyiv. Unfortunately, a few of my colleagues want to see the Russians emerge victorious. I do not understand why they feel that way. I believe it's a terrible stance."
House Speaker Mike Johnson from Louisiana is pushing for the advancement of a set of bills for foreign aid, which includes funding for Ukraine, Israel, allies in the Indo-Pacific, and other national security priorities. Votes on different parts of the package are expected to take place by this weekend.
Some members of the House's conservative faction quickly criticized the decision to introduce Ukraine aid, arguing that the funding should be directed towards domestic matters, such as the security of the country's southern border.
Bacon emphasized Ukraine's desire for freedom, a free-market economy, and integration with the West, stating, "Ukraine aims for independence, a free-market economy, and integration with the West, which could have a significant impact on Europe. We should support them in this pursuit."
Johnson is facing intensifying examination from House conservatives who are urging him to utilize the GOP's majority in the House to achieve greater Republican victories.
Last month, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia introduced a motion to depose Johnson from his position as Speaker due to his handling of government spending and his decision to bring Ukraine aid to the fore.
Bacon acknowledged the possibility of Johnson being removed from his leadership position but expressed confidence that the Speaker's backing would protect him from any attempt to depose him.
"It may happen, but I think there is enough support for Speaker Johnson to stay in his position, and he should. Despite differing opinions, he has been a decent man of character who is striving to do the right thing," Bacon commented.
"He has good intentions and is making an effort to achieve his objectives. He possesses a strong moral compass and recognizes the urgency of getting this done," he added.
Representative Dan Crenshaw from Texas echoed similar sentiments to CNN earlier in the day, arguing that those supporting the motion to depose Johnson are taking Russia's side.
"Apparently, they are so desperate for Russia to triumph that they want to oust the Speaker for that reason," Crenshaw stated on Thursday. "It's a peculiar stance to take."
