US government: Ukraine threatened by loss of US aid in New Year

US financial resources for Ukraine are almost exhausted. Congress must approve the new money — but there’s resistance. The head of the National Budget Office has now responded to the urgent appeal.

According to the government in Washington, the funds approved by the US Congress for Ukraine will be fully used by the end of this year. This is according to a letter sent by US National Budget Office Director Shalanda Young to leadership in both houses of Congress.

If the US Congress does not act, the government will have no funds from the new year to buy additional weapons and equipment for Ukraine or to supply equipment to Kiev from its own military stocks. The letter was released by the White House on Monday.

Young: They are Probability Russian victories will increase

Young urged Congress to act: “We don’t have the money — and almost no time.” There is no “magic pot” from which funds can be drawn, Young cautioned. If the flow of weapons and equipment from the US is interrupted, it will bring Ukraine to its “knees on the battlefield”.

This not only endangers Ukraine’s victories, but also increases the likelihood of Russian victories. “If our aid stops, it will cause significant problems for Ukraine.” Although international partners have increased their support, they have not been able to match US aid.

Via video: Zelensky wants to ask US senators for military aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to make a direct appeal to the US Senate today, amid growing concerns about the lack of US aid. Senate Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the head of state will be joined by video link during the non-public session of the chamber.

The US government invited Zelensky to address senators so they could “hear directly from him what is at stake.” Schumer announced that Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and government officials responsible for defense policy will also take the stage.

97 percent of the funds have been utilized

Budget Director Young, meanwhile, listed what has already been used among the funds authorized so far. The US Department of Defense has already used 97 percent of the funds authorized for Ukraine. The money earmarked for the country’s economic aid has already been completely cut. “If the Ukrainian economy collapses, they won’t be able to continue fighting, period.” He has requested to provide the necessary funds as soon as possible.

The US is Ukraine’s main military backer and has already provided billions. US President Joe Biden has requested nearly $106 billion in new money for Ukraine, Israel and other spending.

However, opposition has been growing in Congress to support Ukraine to this day. Some Republicans want to tighten border policy along Mexico’s border in exchange for their approval.