Ukraine (Washington Insider Magazine)— during a joint appearance at NATO headquarters in Brussels alongside Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the critical need for the U.S. Congress to advance President Biden’s supplemental budget request for additional assistance to Ukraine.
The requested aid package, totalling approximately $60 billion, has encountered obstacles in the U.S. Congress, delaying crucial support for Ukraine’s defence efforts.
Blinken’s Push for Collective Support
Addressing the urgency of the situation, Blinken underscored the importance of swift approval of the funding, stating that it would serve as a vital resource for Ukraine in defending itself against Russian aggression. He noted the Republican party’s opposition in Congress as a hindrance and stressed the necessity for prompt action.
NATO’s Proposed Fund: A Potential Lifeline for Ukraine
Looking beyond the proposed funding, Blinken highlighted ongoing discussions with NATO allies and partners regarding additional support measures for Ukraine. This includes exploring avenues for financial assistance to address immediate challenges and ensuring long-term security.
Ukraine’s Call for Patriot Defense Systems
According to Efe, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has proposed the establishment of a €100 billion fund to aid Ukraine, a proposal under consideration by foreign ministers within the Alliance. Blinken indicated that further deliberations on military assistance were also underway, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba advocating for Patriot air defence systems to counter Russian threats.
NATO’s Commitment to Ukraine’s Defense
The discussions reflect the collective efforts of NATO members to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities and address the evolving security landscape in the region.
