President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning that without prompt U.S. military support, Ukraine risks losing more ground to Russian advances. His urgent call emphasizes the critical need for Congress to approve a significant aid package soon.
The Biden administration faces challenges in securing approval for a $95 billion international aid package from the House of Representatives, a package that notably includes $60 billion earmarked for Ukraine, despite having been approved by the Senate over a month ago.
Highlighting the dire situation, Zelensky pointed out the immediate ramifications of delayed aid, underscoring the peril faced by Ukraine’s major urban centers.
“In the absence of U.S. backing, we’re left without crucial air defense systems, Patriot missiles, electronic warfare jammers, and necessary artillery ammunition,” Zelensky disclosed in a recent interview with The Washington Post. “This would inevitably lead to a gradual withdrawal on our part.”
He further elaborated on the necessity to economize on resources and the potentially severe impacts of such measures. Zelensky described a scenario where a shortfall in artillery ammunition could compel a reduction in defensive actions and possibly necessitate a shortening of the frontline, a move that could expose major cities to Russian advances.
The ongoing conflict has already seen significant portions of Eastern Ukraine fall under Russian control following Moscow’s invasion over two years ago. The recent withdrawal from Avdiivka, a key town on the eastern front, coupled with the earlier capture of Bakhmut by Moscow, reflects a concerning shift in the war’s dynamics in favor of Russia.
Moreover, increased Russian assaults on Ukrainian border villages have been reported, coinciding with Putin’s discussions on establishing a “sanitary zone” within Ukraine aimed at securing Russia’s southwestern borders. This development followed Putin’s victory in a controversial presidential election.
The future of the U.S. aid bill remains uncertain, with differing opinions within Congress on its structure, including debates between loans versus direct aid.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated a potential for bipartisan cooperation in the House on this matter, suggesting discussions may resume post-Easter recess.
Meanwhile, Zelensky underscores the urgency of stabilizing the frontline and preparing for potential counteroffensives, dependent heavily on the decisions of the U.S. Congress. “Time is of the essence. Ukraine must not become a pawn in political maneuvering between parties,” Zelensky stated, highlighting the broader implications of the aid decision on Ukraine’s strategic positioning.
