US pledges continued support to Ukraine amidst congressional funding delays

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmes US’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, despite congressional gridlock over funding for additional weaponry

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed on Tuesday the unwavering commitment of the United States to bolster Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, even amidst congressional gridlock over funding for additional weaponry.

Speaking at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany, Austin addressed over 50 defense leaders from across Europe and beyond, asserting, “The United States will not let Ukraine fail. This coalition will not let Ukraine fail. And the free world will not let Ukraine fail.”

The gathering transpired following a significant allocation of $300 million from U.S. defense coffers to furnish Ukraine with a fresh cache of military aid, drawing equipment from Pentagon reserves. This move comes amid a backdrop of escalating tensions and dire battlefield conditions in Ukraine.

During the assembly, representatives from various nations deliberated on extending support to Ukraine. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius revealed Germany’s commitment to provide ammunition, armored vehicles, and transport assets totaling approximately $542 million (500 million euros).

Pistorius underscored Germany’s solidarity with Ukraine, stating, “We are assisting Ukraine with essential resources in its defense against Russian aggression.” The aid package includes 10,000 rounds of ammunition sourced from the German Army’s arsenal, alongside 100 armored vehicles and an equivalent number of transport vehicles.

Despite mounting delays in congressional approval for funding, Pistorius affirmed his confidence in the reliability of the United States as an ally.

The recent $300 million aid package marks the Biden administration’s first tranche of weaponry dispatched since December. This allocation was made feasible through presidential drawdown authority, tapping into existing Pentagon reserves to swiftly furnish Ukraine with necessary armaments.

However, ongoing funding stalemates in Congress pose a significant hurdle. A $95 billion supplemental bill, earmarked with approximately $60 billion for Ukrainian aid, remains deadlocked amid opposition from certain Republican quarters. House Speaker Mike Johnson’s refusal to bring the bill to a vote further exacerbates the impasse.

The repercussions of funding delays extend beyond weaponry provision, with training programs for Ukrainian forces facing imminent jeopardy. The U.S. Army regional command for Europe and Africa anticipates depletion of its budget for such initiatives by June, having already expended over $500 million this fiscal year.

Despite these challenges, efforts to bolster Ukrainian defenses persist. The international coalition has thus far trained over 129,000 Ukrainian personnel across a myriad of global locations.

Acknowledging the daunting odds faced by Ukrainian troops, Austin reiterated the steadfast resolve of both Ukraine and the United States in confronting Russian aggression. He emphasized the sacrifices borne by Russian forces, with estimates suggesting casualties numbering over 315,000, alongside a staggering economic toll.

Source: AP