Calm down the Ukrainians. While the instrument canceled at the last minute by Congress to avoid the feared “shutdown” provides for further funding of the American government for 45 days, but excludes the aid requested by the White House from Ukraine, Joe Biden wanted to reassure his partners in the war this Sunday evening .
“I want to say to our allies, the American people and the Ukrainian people: you can count on our support. “We will not abandon Ukraine,” he said in a televised speech.
“There is a sense of urgency” to approve a new funding measure for Ukraine in the coming days and weeks, Joe Biden said, also castigating Republicans who are calling for deep cuts in government spending. “Enough is enough. (…) I’ve had enough of risky activities,” he complained. And to continue: “This policy (…) must stop.” There must be no further crisis.”
At the same time, Kiev announced that it would work with the United States to prevent this vital aid to Ukraine from being blocked. “The Ukrainian government is actively working with its US partners to ensure that the new US budget decision, which will be made within the next 45 days, will include new funding to support Ukraine,” the Ukrainian government spokesman said. Foreign Ministry Oleg Nikolenko. “This situation will not prevent the further flow of aid to Ukraine,” he assured.
$110 billion in American aid
In addition, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced on social networks on Sunday that he had spoken with his American counterpart Lloyd Austin to discuss the continuation of American military aid. “Secretary Austin assured me that U.S. support for Ukraine will continue. “Ukrainian fighters will continue to have strong support on the battlefield,” he said.
VIDEO. “Shutdown”: The United States avoids paralyzing its federal administration at the last minute
International support for Ukraine is crucial in the country’s fight against Russia. The United States has helped Kiev the most, providing around $110 billion in civilian and military aid since February 2022.