"Without adequate and timely direct budget support, Ukraine will be unable to defend itself and thwart Russia's further encroachment toward NATO countries," the officials said.While Canada and the EU are providing more aid as a percentage of GDP, the officials said these and other sources are insufficient to cover Ukraine's budget shortfall. The $11.8 billion is the minimum required to meet Ukraine's basic needs, they argued. President Biden has previously urged Congress to support assistance for both Ukraine and Israel in a new $106 billion aid package, including over $61 billion for Ukraine. The $11.8 billion would come from this broader package. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson insists Ukraine and Israel aid be considered separately, with Ukraine's tied to border security funding. Read also:
- US sanctions Russian national for helping elites launder money
- CNN: Ukraine military aid running out of funds, White House says amidst Congress split
- Zelenskyy meets bipartisan US delegation, discusses Ukraine’s defense needs
- US announces $425 million in military aid for Ukraine
- Reuters: Senior US Republicans call Biden to send long-range missiles to Ukraine
- Supporting Israel and Ukraine is vital to US security, Biden says