McConnell: Next President Must Focus on Deterring Adversaries

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell emphasized the importance of U.S. military strength and support for allies, particularly Ukraine, during a speech at the Kentucky Farm Bureau’s country ham breakfast. He argued that the next president must prioritize deterring adversaries, identifying an "axis of evil" comprising North Korea, China, Russia, and Iran, all of which he described as authoritarian regimes opposed to democracy. McConnell asserted that American leadership is crucial for the democratic world, framing support for Ukraine not as charity but as a strategic necessity. In a brief interview following his address, McConnell refrained from directly mentioning former President Trump or Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Instead, he focused on the political landscape, suggesting that if Trump concentrates on issues like inflation and immigration, he could secure victory in the upcoming election. McConnell's remarks reflect his long-standing role as a political strategist, particularly in the realm of foreign policy. Addressing Republican skepticism regarding aid to Ukraine, McConnell highlighted that much of the funding is reinvested in the U.S. economy, aiding the retooling of the industrial base to meet future challenges. He underscored the significance of ensuring Russian failure in Ukraine, framing it as a broader issue beyond the immediate conflict. McConnell expressed confidence that the American public recognizes the importance of supporting Ukraine, indicating that bipartisan support for such aid will persist regardless of the outcome of the presidential election.