Obama Admin. Deciding Whether Lethal Assistance Should Be Sent to Ukraine

President Obama is rethinking the topic of whether or not the United States should send Ukraine military forces defensive aid and other lethal aid, as they continue to push out Russian-backed rebels.

While a senior in the Obama administration says that the President is still determining the pros and cons of sending aid, Obama was originally sure that America would not send support to these sanctions. Though the statement given by the White House indicates that they are currently rethinking the subject.

Officials say the contemplation was brought up by the resurgence violence between Ukraine and Russian based separatists. While violence is prevalent, Obama is worrying over sending high-powered equipment over seas to the Ukraine and worries about the possibility of a proxy war between America and Russia. The President also believes that the troops would not be able to use the resources effectively.

Obama and several European leaders urge to stop Russia’s yearlong advance on Ukraine. They are concerned with the sanctions targeting Moscow’s defense, energy and financial sectors. Those close to President Vladimir Putin are also being heavily monitored.

National Security Council spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan said the White House is “constantly assessing our policies in Ukraine.” She goes on to say, “Although our focus remains on pursuing a solution through diplomatic means, we are always evaluating other options that will help create space for a negotiated solution to the crisis.”

Secretary of State John Kerry plans on traveling to Kiev this week to meet with Ukraine leaders, while officials are saying that the trip does not correlate, many are suspecting that the meeting will work on the U.S.’ new policy.

While Kerry plans on taking a trip to the Ukraine, German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be visiting the White House sometime next week.

Merkel says that Germany will not be providing Ukraine with any weapons, and stated in Hungary that, “It is my firm belief that this conflict cannot be solved militarily.”

Photo Credit: Reuters