The United States approves financial assistance for Ukraine, but this particular installment is likely to be the final one.

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The United States approves financial assistance for Ukraine, but this particular installment is likely to be the final one

After considerable speculation and a visit from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Biden-led U.S. administration has approved military aid for the war-torn country. However, this assistance could potentially be the final tranche available without fresh approval from the U.S. Congress, where discussions have reached an impasse. The recent aid package includes air defense, artillery, small arms ammunition, and anti-tank weapons, costing the U.S. approximately $250 million (₹20,794,046,000).




Ukraine's much-publicized counter-offensive in the eastern border with Russia has encountered obstacles, with a change in the line of control. There is a looming risk of complete seizure if aid from Washington and Europe diminishes. In the absence of substantial aid from Western countries, there is a heightened possibility that Vladimir Putin could advance further, extending his influence beyond Crimea.

The U.S. faced financial challenges, particularly after allocating funds to support Benjamin Netanyahu's Israel in their "right to defend" against Gaza's Hamas fighters. This financial strain coincided with U.S. funding for Ukraine in its counter-offensive against Russia. Vladimir Putin initiated a 'special military operation' in Ukraine's eastern part in February 2022, resulting in thousands of Ukrainians being displaced and thousands losing their lives.

Despite an unsuccessful attempt to pass an emergency spending measure providing $50 billion for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel in the Senate, the latest military aid to Ukraine will involve withdrawing weapons from existing Pentagon stocks, a process that does not require Congressional approval.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the urgency for Congress to act swiftly, stating that it is imperative to advance national security interests by helping Ukraine defend itself. He highlighted the critical role U.S. assistance has played in supporting Ukrainian partners against Russia's aggression.

However, challenges persist as Hungary blocked a €50 billion EU aid package for Ukraine earlier this month. Ukraine is grappling with a $43 billion budget deficit, and officials warn of potential delays in salaries and pensions for government employees if further aid from the West is not received promptly.

As funding slows from Ukraine's Western allies, Russian forces continue to engage in the east of the country, seizing a key town recently. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu confirmed the capture of Mariinka in eastern Ukraine after Ukrainian forces withdrew. The town had been a focal point of fighting for over a year. The situation remains fluid, underscoring the urgency of international support for Ukraine's stability. #Ukraine #MilitaryAid #Geopolitics

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