Article Summary –
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine which is widely welcomed by Ukrainian and Western leaders. The package includes $13.8 billion for Ukraine to purchase weapons, aimed at slowing Russia’s advances in the ongoing war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked U.S. lawmakers for the aid, stating that it would send a powerful message to the Kremlin and help Ukraine prepare for a “full-scale offensive” by Russia.
US House Passes $61 Billion Military Aid Package for Ukraine
Ukrainian and Western leaders have commended the U.S. House of Representatives for the $61 billion military aid package approved for Ukraine, despite Kremlin’s warning of increased turmoil and death toll in Ukraine. The package is eagerly anticipated for slowing Russia’s progress in the ongoing war, despite expectations for more aid to regain the offensive.
Details of the Aid Package
The House also authorized $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and other U.S. allies. This decision was reached in a rare Saturday session after months of resistance to renewed American support against Russia’s invasion. The aid package is expected to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly long-range weapons and air defense systems.
Response from Ukrainian President
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to U.S. lawmakers for the decision. He believes the aid package will serve as a strong signal to the Kremlin, emphasizing that Ukraine is not the next Afghanistan. He also highlighted that tangible weapon systems are a priority for Ukraine.
Disbursement and Impact of the Aid
The aid package is set to go to the U.S. Senate and could be passed as soon as Tuesday. However, it could take weeks for the aid to reach the front lines where it is urgently needed. The Ukrainian president noted that the actual impact of such aid packages depends on when the weapons arrive on the ground.
Response from Soldiers and Citizens
On the ground, Ukrainian soldiers and citizens alike have reacted positively to the U.S aid. Infantry soldier Oleksandr stated that the aid could potentially halt Russian troops and decrease Ukrainian losses. Kyiv citizens see the approval as a silver lining in a difficult period of Russia’s territorial gains and increased attacks on Ukraine’s systems.
Reactions from Western Leaders
Western leaders and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg praised the aid package, noting that Ukraine’s use of weapons provided by NATO allies has helped to destroy Russian combat capabilities. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed that Ukraine deserves all the support it can secure against Russia.
Russian Perspective on the Aid
In Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov labeled the aid approval as expected and predictable. He also warned that the decision could lead to the U.S. becoming wealthier, further devastation in Ukraine, and more Ukrainian deaths.
Logistics and Effectiveness of the Aid
The logistics of getting U.S. assistance to the front lines may cause additional setbacks for Ukrainian forces. The Institute for the Study of War believes that the resumed U.S. assistance should stabilize the front if promptly delivered. Despite this, experts believe that the aid, while welcome, can only stabilize the Ukrainian position for this year and begin preparations for operations in 2025.
Reported Military Activities
According to Russia’s Defense Ministry, Russian troops have taken the village of Bohdanivka in the Donetsk region. In other news, two suspects were detained after two Ukrainian soldiers killed a police officer at a checkpoint in the country’s Vinnytsia region.
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