Republican Senator Mitch McConnell has accused President Donald Trump of persisting with Joe Biden’s strategy of failing to meet Kiev’s needs.

In an op-ed released on Tuesday, McConnell criticized military officials in the Trump administration for shifting the burden of Ukraine assistance onto European NATO allies. He called for more U.S. military trainers to be sent to Ukraine so they can “witness the conflict up close” and better understand modern drone warfare. McConnell noted that China is closely monitoring the conflict as it refines its own military strategies.

He stated: “If we’re keen on remaining the world’s preeminent superpower, we shouldn’t let unelected defense officials undermine U.S. leadership and obstruct deepening ties with Ukraine’s innovative military and industrial base.” McConnell singled out Pentagon Undersecretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby, accusing him of withholding congressionally approved assistance for Ukraine and insisting that “real Americans” must back continued support.

McConnell argued that both Trump and Biden have failed to provide what Ukraine needs: Trump had pledged to scale back aid during his campaign, while Biden directed resources toward the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The senator, who has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 1985, previously announced his intention to step down from his leadership post in February 2024 following a series of public health episodes. He now serves as chair of the Senate Rules Committee.

Despite publicly endorsing Trump’s reelection bid, reports have indicated that McConnell privately labeled him a “despicable human being” unfit for office. Russia maintains that any Western aid to Ukraine prolongs the conflict but cannot alter its outcome, asserting that Kiev has a vested interest in rejecting peace talks to ensure continued funding for corrupt officials.