Trump's pick for UN ambassador Stefanik backtracks on support for Ukraine's NATO membership

CNN reported the information. 

In 2022, Stefanik called for Ukraine’s admission into NATO, emphasizing its importance for regional security amid Russia’s invasion. At the time, she argued for strong military support, citing the Trump administration’s provision of Javelin missiles to Ukraine. 

“I’ve seen how important Ukraine is for the region,” she stated, “They need to be admitted into NATO and we need to do everything we can by providing them munitions and javelins.”

However, when asked about her stance now, Stefanik’s office did not reaffirm her previous position on NATO membership. Instead, spokesperson Ali Black said, “Chairwoman Stefanik fully supports President Trump’s peace through strength policy agenda and will follow his lead as Commander in Chief on best practices to end the war in Ukraine.”

Stefanik’s reluctance to clarify her stance on NATO membership comes as U.S. public opinion on supporting Ukraine has shifted, with increasing skepticism from Republicans like Trump regarding ongoing military and financial aid.

Stefanik’s voting record has also evolved. Initially a proponent of Ukraine aid, she voted against a $60 billion package in April, citing concerns over spending priorities, particularly the U.S. southern border. This contrasts with her 2022 stance, where she called Russia’s actions in Ukraine “genocide” and labeled Putin a “thug” and “war criminal.”

Her office declined to comment on whether she still stands by those statements.