John Kirby, the strategic communications coordinator for the White House National Security Council, discussed these efforts in an interview with Voice of America.
Kirby mentioned the administration's intention to collaborate with allies on potential contributions and to examine internal resources for additional support measures.
"And, of course, we're looking within our own system, within our own government and the entire administration, to see if there's anything else we could do to support Ukraine. But none of these efforts can replace the scope, the scale, that has provided us by approving the request for additional funding," Kirby explained.
When asked about a backup plan, Kirby admitted, "We're always looking at other options that we can take. But whatever they are, they're not going to be as good as asking for more funding."
The approval of the funding bill by the House remains uncertain, with its fate largely in the hands of House Speaker Mike Johnson.
Kirby expressed optimism about support for the bill, stating, "We know, and Speaker Johnson knows, if he brings it up for a vote, the bill will pass. There's enough bipartisan support for it, in both parties. There's no question. The real question is, will he bring it up? And only he can answer that question."
The Biden administration is reportedly considering the reallocation of approximately $200 million from U.S. military funds to support Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Speaker Mike Johnson, after a meeting with Congressional leaders and President Joe Biden, emphasized that border protection remains a top priority.
