Biden’s Aid Bill Is Approved – Time to Stand Up to Russia and Support Ukraine with Necessary Weapons
The recent House vote on four bills that provide aid to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan showcases the saying that Americans tend to do the right thing after exploring all options.
The delayed congressional response to Ukraine has particularly dire consequences as the country’s anti-air capabilities diminish while Russian attacks claim civilian lives.
Russian forces are making headway on the battlefield, increasing the risk of Ukrainian defense collapse.
The substantial Ukraine bill aims to provide nearly $61 billion in funding for military and public finance assistance, alongside US stockpile replenishment. This delayed bill prompted new European initiatives to support Ukraine’s security.
While US aid is crucial, a strategic shift is needed from the Biden administration to support Ukraine effectively. Bipartisan cooperation was key to passing the recent bill for assistance to Ukraine and Israel.
The Biden administration must address its ambition and strategic clarity levels to aid Ukraine effectively, ensure Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and not relent in the face of Russian escalation fears.
President Biden must underscore the importance of supporting Ukraine’s final victory and clarify to the American people why this stands crucial for US interests.
The administration must overcome fear of Russian response in supporting Ukraine and provide air defenses and ammunition swiftly. Ukrainians require air power and artillery without strings attached to make Russia’s control over occupied territories unsustainable.
As Ukraine nears liberating Crimea, a potential goal, the Biden team must respond to escalating rhetoric with European allies. This is not just about Ukraine’s territory but a larger fight for the West’s survival and security against intimidation.
Dalibor Rohac, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington DC, can be found on Twitter: @DaliborRohac.