WASHINGTON (Washington Insider Magazine)— Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a last-minute trip to Washington on Tuesday to advocate for additional air defense support amid ongoing challenges in Congress. The fate of a $61 billion supplemental package, crucial for unlocking this assistance, remains uncertain as partisan gridlock continues.
During a press conference, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of achieving air superiority against Russia, stating, “Who controls the skies controls the war’s duration.” He highlighted the need for advanced air defense systems to enhance Ukraine’s ground offensive in 2024 and discussed strategies with U.S. defense industry leaders to expedite defense production.
Zelenskyy’s visit came as he returned from the inauguration of Argentinean President Javier Milei, aiming to sway increasingly skeptical Republican lawmakers regarding further aid for Ukraine. While he addressed the full Senate and engaged with House Democrats, his attempt to meet with the entire House was hindered by House Speaker Mike Johnson’s scheduling decisions. Zelenskyy described his discussion with Johnson as “positive,” yet he acknowledged the need for concrete results.
As the end of the year approaches, it appears increasingly unlikely that Congress will pass the Ukraine aid package. Johnson plans to recess the House for the holidays, despite Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s appeals to remain in session to expedite the defense spending request, which includes funds for Ukraine, Israel, and other priorities.
Although bipartisan support for Ukraine aid exists, some House Republicans, previously in favor of military assistance, now express skepticism after the U.S. allocated over $113 billion last year. Johnson has insisted on pairing Ukraine aid with strict immigration measures, complicating negotiations.
The Biden administration currently has less than $5 billion available for weapon transfers to Ukraine and around $1 billion to replenish U.S. stockpiles. Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Patty Murray warned that failing to renew aid could bolster Russian President Vladimir Putin’s chances of victory in the conflict.
Zelenskyy has previously stressed that without additional support, Ukraine risks losing the war. The Senate Democrats’ aid bill aligns closely with Biden’s $106 billion request, proposing $61 billion for Ukraine, which includes $44 billion for military support and increased authority for transferring weapons from U.S. stockpiles.
Senate Armed Services Chairman Jack Reed and Senator Mitt Romney noted Zelenskyy’s emphasis on securing advanced air defense systems, particularly the Patriot missile system and longer-range Army Tactical Missile Systems, as essential to countering recent Russian attacks, including a barrage of missiles on Kyiv that wounded four people.
As the situation develops, the urgency for Congress to act on Ukraine aid remains critical, both for the security of Ukraine and for maintaining U.S. commitments in the face of Russian aggression.
