Biden extends invitation to Zelensky as war funds dry out

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
10 Dec 2023 23:54

The announcement comes against the backdrop of the administration's warning that funds for Ukraine aid will run out in a matter of weeks unless Congress resolves internal disputes.

President Joe Biden speaks about investment in rail projects, including high-speed electric trains, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Las Vegas (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

US President Joe Biden has extended an invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for a meeting at the White House on Tuesday.

The announcement comes against the backdrop of the administration's warning that funds for Ukraine aid will run out in a matter of weeks unless Congress resolves internal disputes.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the leaders will delve into discussions on "Ukraine's urgent needs" and stress "the vital importance of the United States' continued support at this critical moment."

The Ukrainian presidency, in its own statement, outlined the meeting's key focus on "further defense cooperation between Ukraine and the United States, particularly through joint projects on the production of weapons and air defense systems, as well as the coordination of efforts between our countries in the coming year."

However, a recent setback occurred when Republican senators blocked a $106 billion emergency aid package primarily designated for Ukraine and "Israel." The obstruction arose from conservative demands for immigration reforms to be included in the package.

"This cannot wait," Biden said in a televised address at the White House on Wednesday. "Frankly, I think it's stunning that we've gotten to this point in the first place, where Republicans in Congress are willing to give Putin the greatest gift he could hope for."

The White House underscored the timeliness of Tuesday's meeting, coinciding with Russia's escalating missile and drone strikes against Ukraine. Meanwhile, Moscow's recent signs of a possible peace deal raise questions about the nature of a potential resolution.

To alleviate immediate concerns, the US State Department announced a stopgap provision of $175 million in new aid for Ukraine, including critical assets like HIMARS rockets, shells, missiles, and ammunition. The funding dispute, however, highlights growing signs of strain in Western support for Ukraine, particularly as Kiev's counteroffensive faces challenges and Russia seeks to consolidate its territorial gains. Despite billions spent on Western weapons, Ukraine's front lines have seen minimal shifts, with Russian operations intensifying over the past year.