On February 29, Pentagon spokesperson General Pat Ryder stressed the critical need for more U.S. support to aid Ukraine. He pointed out that this support is crucial not only for defense purposes but also to help Ukraine take back areas currently under Russian control.
This statement came after the U.S. Senate passed a foreign aid bill worth $95 billion on February 13. The bill, which includes $60 billion designated for Ukraine as well as additional funds for Israel and other allies, has encountered obstacles in moving forward. Its progress has been stalled in the House, primarily due to Republican Speaker Mike Johnson's hesitance to present it for a vote.
The lag in receiving U.S. aid has further complicated the situation for Ukraine, leading to a shortage of ammunition. This shortage has had significant impacts, notably on the battle for Avdiivka, a key city on the front lines.
"We continue to see Russia... making some small but incremental gains... And so it's vital that we be able to receive the supplemental funding," Ryder explained during a press briefing.
He emphasized the immediate need for this funding to ensure Ukraine could strengthen its defensive and offensive strategies. This includes enhancing air defense and ammunition supplies to not only defend itself but also to reclaim its sovereign territories.
Ryder also stressed that, despite these funding delays, the U.S. continues to send some level of assistance to Ukraine.
This support, particularly in air defense, is being provided through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), ensuring that Ukraine still receives some form of aid amidst these challenges.
