US lawmakers have approved new funding to provide Ukraine with desperately needed military aid. The delay in approving new funding was costly, undermining Kyiv’s fight against invading Russian forces. Ukraine has received only limited aid this year due to opposition from some Republicans in the House of Representatives. The gaps in assistance left Kyiv’s troops vulnerable, as they ran short of key items such as artillery munitions.
The delay in approving new funding created an opening for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Supplemental funding for Ukraine was stalled for months, but lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted 311-112 to approve $61 billion for aid to Kyiv, with the Senate expected to soon follow suit. The Pentagon is prepared to quickly provide aid to Ukraine if approved by Congress, including air defense and artillery capabilities.
The approval of additional funding is crucial for Ukraine’s continued resistance against Russia. The delay in approval has resulted in Ukraine losing territory, taking additional casualties, and being less able to fend off air attacks. The shortage of artillery rounds and air defense capabilities has left Ukraine in a difficult position. Military aid to Ukraine also weakens Russia without endangering US forces at a lower cost.
