Warning Sounds Alarm Bells for Ukraine's Survival
In a stark warning, Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, raised the specter of Ukraine's imminent defeat in its ongoing war against Russia should American funding not materialize. Yermak brought this message to Washington, stating, "Make no mistake, this prolongs the impossible mission of liberating our territories and poses a significant risk of losing this war." As per Voice of America's reporting, Yermak made these comments during his visit.
Yermak urged the United States Congress to expedite approval of a $1 billion aid package that has been stalled since October. Simultaneously, he assures the media that Ukraine has alternative military plans for the coming year.
The US announcement in October that its funding for supporting Ukraine would cease by December has raised concerns. For the 2024 budget, Ukraine is estimated to need approximately €39 billion in foreign funding, with about €27 billion of that figure considered uncertain.
Ukraine has been locked in a fierce battle against Russian invasion for over 21 months, relying on substantial Western aid. Despite an anticipated summer offensive by the Ukrainian army, the objectives were not met. Russia maintains 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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Over two decades of Western aid have bolstered Ukraine's economy and military. According to the Congressional Research Service, the US has provided more than $14.4 billion in aid to Ukraine since 2014, with the majority directed towards military and security assistance.
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Additional Insights:
- As of 2022, the European Union and its member states have pledged over €7 billion in military aid to Ukraine, including €3 billion in new funding announced in December 2022.
- Ukraine's national budget relies heavily on international donor support, with over three-quarters of its 2022 budget dependant on external assistance.
- The US and its allies have imposed significant sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, which have negatively impacted Russia's economy and financial stability.
As Yermak urged the United States Congress to approve the $1 billion aid package, it is crucial to consider the broader economic, geopolitical, and military contexts of Ukraine's struggle against Russia. The continued international support will be vital to Ukraine's survival and eventual victory.
