U.S. on funding for Ukraine: 'We are at bottom, but we need to stand by our partner'
U.S. Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller (Photo: Getty Images)
Ukraine is on the brink of a challenging winter period, so the United States must support its partner. Congress should act to approve funding for assistance to Ukraine, stated the U.S. Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller during his briefing.
He emphasized that the State Department has made it clear to Congress that action is needed to fund assistance and provide economic support to Ukraine. Additionally, it pertains to funding security assistance to Israel and humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.
"We are at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to our ability to provide security assistance to Ukraine," Miller said.
The State Department spokesperson reminded us that Ukraine is entering the winter period, which is likely to be challenging, as Russia is already attacking critical infrastructure in Ukraine.
"So it is our position in this administration that we need to stand by our partner at this difficult time. We need to continue to support them in their fight against Russia, and we hope that the U.S. Congress will be there as well," added the diplomat.
Background
On October 1, the U.S. Congress adopted a temporary budget bill. It did not include new funding for assistance to Ukraine, as it was decided that this initiative should be considered separately. After that, U.S. President Joe Biden proposed allocating $106 billion to Congress. Most of these funds ($60 billion) want to be directed to assist Ukraine. The package also included assistance to Israel.
After prolonged disputes, the United States approved a new temporary budget for the government without assistance to Ukraine and Israel. Biden signed the law that helped avoid a shutdown.
There are disputes in the U.S. Congress about strengthening the border with Mexico. Republicans have made a demand, threatening not to support funding for Ukraine if immigration legislation is not passed.
