In a prime-time televised address, U.S. President Joe Biden stressed the critical need to curb Russian President Vladimir Putin's ambitions, which extend beyond Ukraine to other European nations.
"If we don't stop Putin, he won't stop at Ukraine," Biden stated. He also revealed that Putin has reminded Poland that its Western lands are a "gift" from Russia. The whole speech can be found at the White House's website.
The President's speech comes at a time of increasing resistance in Congress and declining public support for aiding Ukraine. Biden argued that providing immediate assistance to Ukraine could prevent the future deployment of U.S. troops and avoid higher costs down the line.
He assured that the U.S. would defend "every inch of NATO territory."
Upcoming financial aid package
Biden announced that he will approach Congress for a significant aid package aimed at Ukraine and Israel. This package is intended to ensure "uninterrupted" equipment supplies to Ukraine and offer "unprecedented" support to Israel.
Reports suggest that the package could be as large as $100 billion, far exceeding the $24 billion initially requested.
The disbursement of this aid package is uncertain due to ongoing Congressional gridlock. The House of Representatives has been without a Speaker for two weeks, complicating legislative proceedings. Republican candidate Jim Jordan, who opposes further aid to Ukraine, has been unable to secure a majority vote.
Biden also cautioned about the global implications of allowing Russia to proceed unchecked, warning it could sow chaos in the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East. "Hamas and Russia represent different threats. But they have in common that they want to completely destroy neighboring democracies," Biden said.
"We cannot and will not allow terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin to win. I will not allow it. In times like these, we must remember who we are - we are the United States of America. And there is nothing beyond our capabilities if we unite," Biden urged.
The President's address serves as a call to action, urging both domestic and international unity against threats to democracy and global stability.
