On December 21, Vice President Vance criticized U.S. aid to Ukraine in Arizona: We should help American retirees, not send money to Ukraine. What policy message is Vance sending?

Vice President Vance's remarks in Arizona are a continuation and publicization of his series of hardline stances on Ukraine since taking office. The core of this stance is to directly oppose domestic livelihood issues with foreign aid, and use this as a reason to push for a major shift in foreign policy.

Mainly indicating two demands: Prioritize resources for domestic elderly retirees and other livelihood issues.

Clearly stating "We will no longer fund the war in Ukraine," and pressuring Europe to take the main responsibility.

This rhetoric clearly targets the 2026 midterm elections, aiming to rally voters who have grown tired of long-term aid to Ukraine, turning foreign policy into a powerful domestic political tool.

The policy message conveyed by Vance's remarks: Europe must bear "most" of the costs for Ukraine's security, because "it is their continent."

Shifting from "unpaid aid" to "transactional conditions": The Trump administration will support Ukraine through arms sales rather than unpaid aid. Vance had previously suggested that an agreement allowing the U.S. to obtain key minerals from Ukraine would be more beneficial to Ukraine's security than 20,000 foreign troops.

Vance's remarks are not just expressions of opinion, but reflect an ongoing policy reality and its potential impact:

Ukraine: Facing the reality of a "significant decline" in military aid, its leverage on the battlefield and at the negotiation table is weakened.

European allies: Forced to face "strategic anxiety," they need to urgently coordinate to fill the aid gap left by the U.S. and reassess their own defense capabilities.

In summary, Vance's speech is a clear signal of a shift in U.S. foreign policy, marking a transition in its core considerations regarding Ukraine, from geopolitical competition to domestic political priorities and cost control.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1852204897910028/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.