US Congress questions new Ukraine funding and looks to Europe for action
Photo: Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Brian Mast (Getty Images)
The head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Brian Mast, said in an interview with Radio Liberty that Congress is unlikely to approve a new large financial aid package for Ukraine.
"I do not believe you will see a new US security assistance package for Ukraine — whether it is $6 billion, $60 billion, or any other amount," Mast said.
According to the Republican congressman, Russia's war against Ukraine is taking place "in Europe's backyard," therefore European countries should take greater responsibility for supporting Kyiv.
Mast also said that US President Donald Trump’s administration is taking a "balanced" approach to the war in Ukraine.
At the same time, Washington, he said, will continue to support Kyiv through the transfer of weapons, intelligence, and sanctions pressure on Russia.
"We are ready to be mediators for peace. Europe must defend its own backyard," Mast said.
The congressman also supported the idea of new sanctions against Russia. However, he stressed that restrictions should not harm US allies more than Russia itself.
"Sanctions must do more harm to our enemies and bring more benefit to us and our allies," Mast emphasized.
Earlier, the House of Representatives gathered the required 218 signatures to consider a bill on new aid to Ukraine bypassing Republican leadership. The initiative was supported by Congressman Kevin Kiley, allowing the voting procedure to begin.
The document, proposed by Congressman Gregory Meeks, provides $1.3 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, the possibility of up to $8 billion in loans, as well as new sanctions against Russia. However, the chances of adoption remain low due to Republican resistance and the position of US President Donald Trump.
