At his meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, US President Biden cannot guarantee quick help. However, he warned against an American withdrawal. His guest was cautiously optimistic.
US President Joe Biden dampened the prospects of rapid approval of further aid during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Biden appeared combative at a joint press conference, but admitted that he could make “no promises” but was hopeful that there would be an agreement in Congress. At the same time, he left no doubt about his fundamental position that the USA must support Ukraine.
The release of new funds for the country attacked by Russia is currently being blocked by a dispute in the US Parliament between Republicans and Biden’s Democrats. Biden said they were in negotiations with the Republicans. He urgently warned that Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin was counting on the USA no longer helping Ukraine. “We have to prove him wrong.”
Biden had previously said that Congress must pass legislation to authorize the aid “before they give Putin the biggest Christmas present they can give him.”
Zelensky meets leading Republicans
For Zelensky, it was his third visit to the US capital since the Russian war of aggression began in February 2022. He also met members of Congress – including leading Republicans. They are standing in the way of approving new aid because in return they are demanding more funding from Biden to protect the US southern border and stricter rules in migration policy. Zelensky said the signals from the talks were “more than positive.” “But we know that we have to separate words and concrete results.”
However, the Republican leader of the House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, made it clear after the meeting that his party’s line had not changed. In concrete terms, this means that any possible approval of further aid is likely to be further delayed. Johnson insisted on sending his MPs on Christmas break soon. This is particularly problematic because, according to the White House, the US aid approved so far will be used up by the end of the year.
Biden announces military aid
It is noteworthy that Biden apparently deviated from his government’s previous language policy. He said: “We will continue to supply Ukraine with critical weapons and equipment for as long as we can.” Previously, he had always emphasized that the USA would support Ukraine “as long as it was necessary”.
However, the US President warned clearly against an American withdrawal. “Ukraine will emerge from this war proud, free and firmly rooted in the West unless we leave.” Biden also announced that he would provide $200 million in military aid to Ukraine. However, these are funds that have already been approved.