Zelensky's Office Chief Warns of Ukraine's Potential Downfall
In a stark warning, Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, has raised the specter of Ukraine's impending defeat in its ongoing war against Russia if American funding fails to materialize. Yermak delivered this message during his visit to Washington, stating, "Clearly, this prolongs the impossible mission of liberating our territories and poses a significant risk of losing this war." According to a report by Voice of America, Yermak made these remarks.
Yermak urged the United States Congress to expedite the approval of a $1 billion aid package that has been stalled since October. Simultaneously, he assured the media that Ukraine has alternative military plans for the coming year.
The US announcement in October that its funding for supporting Ukraine would dry up by December has raised concerns. For the 2024 budget, Ukraine is estimated to require roughly 39 billion euros in foreign funding, with about 27 billion euros of that figure considered uncertain.
Ukraine has been fighting off a Russian invasion for over 21 months, relying on massive Western aid. An anticipated offensive by the Ukrainian army in the summer failed to meet its objectives. Moscow retains control of nearly one-fifth of Ukraine's territory, including the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.
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Yermak, Zelensky's office manager, implored the US Congress to expedite the approval of the $1 billion aid package. Despite the concerns, he assured that Kiev had alternative military plans for the coming year.
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Enrichment Insights:
- American financial aid plays a pivotal role in Ukraine's efforts against Russia, particularly when it comes to military support. The temporary suspension of US foreign aid might impact ongoing development projects and efforts but maintains military aid.
- The European Union is planning a significant military aid package worth $6.2 billion for Ukraine. The package includes essential military supplies, such as artillery shells, air defense systems, and equipment for military brigades.
- Ukraine has amassed a war chest of $150 billion through international financial commitments and loans, bolstering its financial stability. This allows Ukraine to fund its operations and infrastructure projects, including critical infrastructure reconstruction and agricultural sector support.
- Ukraine's funding needs total approximately $100 billion, necessitating continued international support to sustain its military efforts and economic stability in the long term.
- The ongoing military support from the US and EU can be leveraged against Russia to put pressure on the country to make concessions. Russia's economic strain, including high inflation, labor shortages, and a dwindling sovereign wealth fund, makes it challenging for Putin to maintain the war effort without external support.
