Impending US government shutdown heightens concerns in Kyiv

Washington is again at risk of a government shutdown, with lawmakers scrambling to reach a deal before Friday

Washington faces the threat of a government shutdown, with lawmakers racing against the clock to reach a deal before Friday.

If no agreement is reached by March 8, a significant portion of the government will be forced to close its doors. 

U.S. President Joe Biden is set to meet with members of Congress on Tuesday in a bid to find a solution to the impasse. 

The dysfunction in Congress can be attributed to the challenges faced by Grand Old Party (GOP) House Speaker Mike Johnson, who is struggling to navigate the demands of the far right wing of his party.

These demands on various issues, from immigration to foreign policy, have made it difficult to find common ground with Democrats. 

The ongoing deadlock has led to speculation about Johnson’s future as Speaker, especially after his predecessor was removed for making compromises with the opposing party. 

Besides the shutdown threat, the squabbling in Congress has also delayed crucial aid to Ukraine, a move that is opposed by the MAGA faction of the GOP.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that his country’s position on the battlefield will continue to deteriorate without additional funding. 

 Source: Newsroom