Since the invasion of Ukraine, many Republicans, particularly those who are staunch allies of former President Donald Trump, have expressed support or have praised Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Further speaking out against members of his party is former vice president Mike Pence, who said that there is no room in the GOP for Putin “apologists.”
Pence ripped into the Republicans who have praised or expressed support for the Russian dictator at a closed event for donors of the Republican National Committee, according to people familiar with the matter. The former vice president said that there is no room in the Republican Party for those who have supported the Russian dictator as he continues to wage war on Ukraine.
“There is no room in this party for apologists for Putin. There is only room for champions of freedom,” said Pence at the event, that was received with applause from donors in attendance.
“Putin only understands strength. As members of the party that won the Cold War, we must send a deafening message: Putin must stop or Putin must pay,” said the former vice president.
The former vice president also said that the Biden administration must ramp up military spending to Ukraine as well as increase sending arms and for President Joe Biden to sanction all Russian oil exports in the world.
“We must demand this administration increase military spending immediately, Ukraine with lethal weapons to counter Russian armor and aircraft and President Biden should sanctioning all oil exports worldwide,” added the former vice president.
Pence’s remarks comes as his former boss, Donald Trump, described Putin as “savvy” and a “genius” for his invasion of Ukraine despite sanctions and worldwide condemnation.
Meanwhile, Pence has launched a $10 million ad blitz targeting 16 House Democrats who are running for re-election in the November midterm races. Pence has also called for the US to increase fossil fuel production while accusing Biden of increasing the country’s dependence on Russian oil and gas despite the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The latest ad blitz appears to indicate the former vice president’s aspirations for a presidential bid in the 2024 races.