The Ukrainian government is not concerned about the recent decision by Congress to remove a package of aid to Kyiv from the stopgap bill signed by President Biden. They are reassured by the promises made by President Biden and congressional leaders that a separate funding package for Ukraine will be pursued.
President Biden stated, “We cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted.” Although some conservative House Republicans are unhappy with the aid, a top aide to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed that the Washington vote does not cause concern.
President Zelenskyy recently visited Washington to advocate for more support and assure lawmakers that the US military aid provided thus far has been well spent. The Ukrainian delegation returned from the United States confident that there will be no changes in support.
Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell have both called for a standalone bill to fund Ukraine. However, garnering support in the GOP-controlled House may prove to be more challenging.
The Ukrainian government is seeking an additional $24 billion in support on top of the existing $114 billion approved by Congress. The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, has urged Washington to quickly approve the funds, emphasizing the existential threat Ukraine faces and the need for better and faster arms.
While some view the congressional vote as a warning for Ukraine to be more effective in securing support, others emphasize the importance of presenting a compelling case to the US about the benefits of Ukraine’s victory. Ukrainian parliamentarian Oleksiy Goncharenko calls for a different approach in order to avoid losing in this war against a larger and more populous neighbor.
The Ukrainian government remains optimistic and committed to its victory in the war with continued support from the US and its allies.
• This article is based in part on wire service reports.
