Biden Confirms $60bn in Military Aid for Ukraine Amid Congressional Delays
US President Joe Biden has reassured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that $60 billion in military assistance is forthcoming, despite pending approval from Congress. The aid aims to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities amidst escalating tensions in Europe.
Zelensky urgently appealed for additional weaponry to address what he termed a “catastrophic” situation. Congressional inaction, attributed to a lack of support, was cited as a reason for Ukraine’s withdrawal from the battle at Avdiivka, a strategic location near the Russian-seized Donetsk regional capital.
While the US Senate greenlit a $95 billion foreign aid package, including $60 billion for Ukraine, political divisions within the House of Representatives pose hurdles. President Biden, expressing frustration, vowed to advocate for the aid’s approval, emphasising the imperative of supporting Ukraine’s defence efforts.
Zelensky echoed Biden’s sentiments, emphasising the need for comprehensive support from US lawmakers. He underscored the importance of international solidarity in deterring Russian aggression and reclaiming Ukrainian territory.
In a Munich conference address, Zelensky emphasised the significance of adequate weaponry to counter Russian advances effectively. He urged global leaders to confront Putin’s continued aggression and support Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty.
The urgency for aid underscores Ukraine’s critical dependence on international support to combat Russia’s military superiority. UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron emphasised the pivotal role of Western allies in aiding Ukraine’s defence efforts.
Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko expressed disappointment in the American leadership’s response, highlighting the disparity between promises of support and current realities.
The fall of Avdiivka, a longstanding battleground, marks a significant territorial shift in the ongoing conflict. Denis Pushilin, head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic, welcomed Russia’s gains, signalling the continuation of hostilities.
Despite the withdrawal from Avdiivka, Ukrainian Armed Forces head Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi affirmed their commitment to defending Ukrainian territory, underscoring their resilience against Russian incursions.
The ongoing conflict underscores the urgent need for international support to safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty and confront Russian aggression. As diplomatic efforts continue, the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance amidst escalating tensions in Eastern Europe.
