In a move that underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, President Joe Biden has signed into law a sweeping $95 billion aid package. The package, which includes a substantial $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine, arrives at a critical juncture as Ukrainian forces grapple with Russian advances, emphasizing the US’s position as a stalwart ally in the global pushback against Russian aggression.
“It’s going to make America safer, it’s going to make the world safer,” President Biden asserted upon the signing of the bill, which is poised to expedite the delivery of fresh weapons and equipment to Ukraine. The approval of the aid package by the Senate, following a bipartisan vote of 79-18, marked the culmination of months of congressional gridlock.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed gratitude, stating the move “reinforces America’s role as a beacon of democracy and leader of the free world”. The aid signals a robust international response to Russia’s steady territorial gains, and underscores the pivotal role of US support in the conflict.
Further reinforcing this support, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced an additional $6 billion military aid package specifically tailored for Ukraine, which includes critical air defense systems such as Patriot missiles. “This is the largest security assistance package that we’ve committed to date,” Austin revealed, adding that it also comprises “significant amounts of artillery ammunition, and air to ground munitions”. This package, too, was passed as part of the broader Congressional approval.
The military assistance is not merely a symbol of political support; it bears significant implications for Ukraine’s defense capabilities, which have been strained by shortages of ammunition and air defense systems. With new strikes in Ukraine’s second city, Kharkiv, and the anticipation of further Russian advances, the timely arrival of US aid is expected to bolster Ukrainian forces markedly.
Despite overwhelming approval, the package has not been without its detractors. Fifteen Senate Republicans and two Democrats voted against the bill, with Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville voicing concerns that “pouring more money into Ukraine’s coffers will only prolong the conflict and lead to more loss of life,” and questioning the lack of a clear definition of victory.
Relevant articles:
– US to send new Ukraine aid right away, Biden says, BBC, 04/28/2024
– Pentagon announces new $6 billion military aid package for Ukraine, ABC News, Fri, 26 Apr 2024 20:03:19 GMT
– These legislators opposed Ukraine aid and their own states’ interests – The Washington Post, The Washington Post, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 21:24:00 GMT
– US approves $95bn aid package for Ukraine and Israel, Yahoo News Canada, Sun, 28 Apr 2024 02:24:39 GMT
– Ukraine-Russia war live: Kyiv’s troops forced back by intense fighting in east as Putin’s soldiers advance, The Independent, Sun, 28 Apr 2024 09:09:29 GMT