Discontent is growing in the US House of Representatives over President Donald Trump’s policy towards Russia. Some Republicans warn they are ready to block additional Pentagon funding unless the administration increases pressure on Moscow, The Hill reports.
The dispute intensified after Trump struck a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin on importing Russian diesel into the United States to curb rising fuel prices. Further outrage was sparked by reports of restrictions on Ukraine’s use of strategic satellite systems.
Republicans who support Ukraine are demanding that sanctions against Russia be reinstated and that restrictions on satellite technology be lifted.At the same time, the Trump administration is trying to secure congressional backing to approve at least $350bn in additional military spending as part of a legislative package.
Congressman Don Bacon said Trump’s legislative initiatives would have no chance of passing during Congress’s final session unless the president changes course on Ukraine and Russia.
“The administration’s decision to reduce intelligence-sharing with Ukraine and access to Starlink is tantamount to helping an invader and a war criminal who bombs cities,” Bacon wrote on X.
Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick also warned of “consequences” if the administration does not restore Ukraine’s access to satellite technology. He said federal agencies would not receive funding if they failed to carry out their duties.
Separate anger was triggered by the decision on Russian fuel. A bipartisan group of lawmakers, in a letter to Trump, urged him to revoke the relevant authorisation and fully and immediately impose sanctions on Russia. Five Republicans backed the appeal.
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“We urge the administration to withdraw this authorisation and not issue new general licences that restore Russian energy operations and return revenue to the Kremlin’s war chest,” the lawmakers’ letter says.
Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is insisting on the adoption of an additional military spending package worth at least $350bn. He said the Pentagon is working on the matter together with the White House regardless of the outcome of the midterm elections.
The package provides funding for the Golden Dome missile defence system, drones, expanded munitions production, artificial intelligence and the modernisation of military equipment.
However, because of Democrats’ opposition to a US war against Iran and dissatisfaction among some Republicans with Trump’s Russia policy, Republican Party leaders may struggle to muster enough votes to pass the package.