The Biden administration issued a firm warning to Congress, emphasizing the urgent need for approval of billions of dollars in financial and military support for Ukraine. The administration stressed that without this crucial assistance, Kyiv’s ability to defend itself from Russia’s invasion could come to a standstill.
In a letter to House and Senate leaders, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young stated that the U.S. is rapidly running out of funding to provide essential weapons and aid to Ukraine. She emphasized that Ukraine’s war efforts and economy are at risk of collapsing without immediate financial support.
President Biden has proposed a comprehensive aid package of nearly $106 billion for Ukraine and other essential needs. However, this proposal has faced challenges and skepticism in Congress, particularly regarding the scale of assistance for Ukraine and parallel demands for changes to U.S.-Mexico border policies to halt migrant flows.
Despite Congress previously allocating $111 billion to assist Ukraine, including substantial funds for military procurement, economic and civil aid, and humanitarian assistance, nearly all of these funds have been depleted by mid-November. The Biden administration has slowed the pace of military assistance to Kyiv in an effort to stretch supplies until additional funding is approved.
The urgent need for aid was reaffirmed in a classified Capitol Hill briefing, stressing the imperative of timely support for Ukraine and the U.S. military. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the immediacy of aid for Ukraine, emphasizing the pressing need for action by Congress.
In conclusion, the letter sent to Congress underscores the critical and immediate nature of providing vital support to Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. Congressional action is urgently required to prevent detrimental consequences to Ukraine’s defense efforts and maintain stability in the region.
