There is some dissatisfaction in the Ukrainian society with the pace of deployment of American Lend-Lease. However, experts explain that there are reasons for this. The new aid program is different from the one adopted during World War II.
At first, the Ukrainians did not like launching the program, now there is a lack of large-scale actions. However, there is a certain intention of the American leadership in delaying Lend-Lease.
Land-Lease during World War II
The United States was a direct participant in World War II war. They not only supplied weapons, ammunition, equipment and food to their allies.
It was this nuance that removed many issues of domestic politics. It was noted that lend-lease is not only the good will of America, but also a form of its self-defense. In Washington, they were guided by a position that brought their victory closer, strengthening the position of the allies.
Lend-lease is influenced by US domestic policy
Now such a position in the American society is not. Both parties are fighting for control of Congress. Mid-term congressional elections are scheduled for November 8. It is assumed that this time the defeat of the “Democrats” is possible, that is, the weakening of the position of US President Joe Biden.
In general, the position of the Republican Party is also pro-Ukrainian. However, experts note that there is a “Trumpist group” in the political force. Supporters of former President Donald Trump believe that Ukraine is a weak point in Biden's policy. The rhetoric is pretty harsh:
- Congressmen from this informal group are openly saying that Biden is squandering his multi-billion dollar aid to Ukraine.
- They say Biden needs to understand that ” America is not an ATM for Ukraine”.
- Moreover, the “trumpists” dispersed the “betrayal” that Ukraine was selling American weapons “to the left”. They demanded to put “under control” the supply of weapons to Ukraine.
These theses are picked up by Putin's propaganda. We should also recall the incident with the Republican of Ukrainian origin Victoria Spartz. She dispersed the scandal, allegedly rooting for Ukraine. However, as a result, they voted “against” the allocation of military assistance to her.
The main idea of Lend-Lease
One of the candidates for the post of speaker of the House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy said he was not going to “easily sign” documents on military assistance to Ukraine, if he takes office.
Consequently, the likely composition of the House of Representatives may slow down assistance to Ukraine. This is where the Lend-Lease program comes in handy. American politicians will not be able to limit it in any way. According to experts, this is the strategic plan of the political leadership of America – not to take on lend-lease, if you can get by with powerful support from other internal reserves.
