US Aid to Ukraine: Current Impasse and Biden's Stance
Date: 2023-12-06 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: POLICY
Challenges in Aid Approval
Ambassador Oksana Markarova highlighted the pivotal need for American support, especially in the run-up to Christmas, emphasizing the significance of aiding Ukraine's heroic struggle. Yet, today's discussions in the Senate on aid face a potential setback due to an unresolved domestic issue regarding the US internal border. Markarova stressed that the internal debate between the two Senate parties was a significant factor impacting the approval of aid packages directed towards Ukraine.
Efforts and Negotiations
Markarova mentioned the efforts undertaken by Ukrainian delegates in the US, including high-level meetings with House Speaker Mike Johnson and committee heads. While progress has been made, she noted cautious optimism but clarified that the desired milestones haven't been reached yet.
The Urgency for Assistance
Underlining the urgency, Markarova reiterated Ukraine's critical need for aid, encompassing military, budgetary, and humanitarian aspects. However, she pointed out the addition of the US southern border issue, intertwining it with the country's internal politics, as a current heated debate topic.
Uncertainty and Biden's Stand
Although discussions regarding supplying arms to Ukraine are no longer on the table, and some aid segments have seen increments, the internal issue remains unresolved. Markarova stressed the critical necessity for a decision before Christmas, aiming for a resolution by December 25th.
