Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell has announced his resignation from his position as head of the Republican minority in the US Senate.
McConnell, aged 82, has led Senate Republicans for the past 18 years.
"It's time for the next generation of leaders to step up. My time to contribute is drawing to a close, though I'll continue in the Senate until my term expires in two years," he stated.
McConnell advocates for ongoing American support for Ukraine and opposes the politicization of this issue.
He also stands in opposition to former US President Donald Trump, who is expected to secure the Republican nomination in the 2024 elections.
The contest for Senate Republican leadership is expected to be intense. McConnell's deputy, John Thune, is seen as one of the frontrunners.
His recent endorsement of Trump's candidacy underscores the Republican establishment's push for reconciliation with the former president.
