September, Friday 20, 2024

Biden Expresses Confidence in Republican Support for $60bn Aid Package Amid Ukraine Conflict


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US President Joe Biden has reassured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that $60 billion in military aid is on its way. Although the measure still needs to pass a final congressional vote, Biden is confident that it will be approved. Zelensky had earlier appealed urgently for more weapons to prevent a "catastrophic" situation in Europe. The US has blamed Ukraine's withdrawal from the battle at Avdiivka on a lack of Congressional support. Avdiivka is a gateway to the Russian-seized Donetsk regional capital in the east, and Russia's capture of this town is their first notable gain since they took control of nearby Bakhmut in May. The White House stated that Ukraine's military was forced to withdraw from Avdiivka due to a shortage of ammunition caused by congressional inaction. The US Senate recently approved a $95 billion foreign aid package, including $60 billion for Ukraine, but it still faces challenges in the House of Representatives. President Biden stated that it is unacceptable to walk away from Ukraine when they are running out of ammunition and pledged to fight for their defense capabilities. Zelensky also urged US lawmakers to approve the financial package. He expressed his gratitude for President Biden's full support. Ukraine heavily relies on weapons supplies from the US and Western allies to combat Russia’s superior military forces. The fall of Avdiivka marks the largest change in the front line since Russia seized Bakhmut in May 2023. The head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic, Denis Pushilin, welcomed Russia's territorial gain in Avdiivka. However, the Ukrainian armed forces announced their withdrawal from the battle in order to prevent encirclement and preserve the lives of their personnel.