The Republican-led House of Representatives has been obstructing $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, while the United States has cautioned that a recent $300 million package would only suffice for a few weeks.
During a meeting in Germany of Ukraine’s international supporters, Defense Secretary Austin affirmed, “The United States will not let Ukraine fail.” He emphasized Washington’s unwavering commitment to providing Ukraine with the necessary resources to counter the Kremlin’s aggression.
Austin disclosed that the $300 million assistance package announced last week was made possible by identifying unanticipated contract savings at the Pentagon.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed the urgency of Congress completing necessary procedures and making a final decision on aid for Kiev.
General Charles “CQ” Brown, the top U.S. military officer, highlighted the challenges faced by Ukrainian troops, noting their need to closely monitor supply rates and execution.
He acknowledged an incremental exchange of gains and losses between Ukraine and Russia, emphasizing the significant costs incurred by Russia in terms of casualties and equipment losses.
According to Austin, approximately 315,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He also underscored Moscow’s staggering expenditure of up to $211 billion on its imperial aggression against Ukraine.
Austin and other U.S. officials have been at the forefront of rallying international support for Ukraine, swiftly forming a coalition to aid Kiev following Russia’s invasion. Washington stands as Kiev’s largest security aid donor, committing tens of billions of dollars in assistance since February 2022.
