President Biden Invites Ukrainian President to Meet
President Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to meet with him on Tuesday, the White House announced Sunday.
The meeting will take place just days after a Democratic bill with billions in aid for Ukraine and Israel failed to clear the Senate, caught up in a debate over U.S. immigration policy and border security.
Mr. Biden chided GOP lawmakers for their opposition to the package, saying that Republicans are willing to give Russian President Vladimir Putin "the greatest gift" if they don't pass additional funding.
"Cutting off the flow of U.S. weapons and equipment will kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield," U.S. Office of Management and Budget head Shalanda Young wrote in a Monday letter to House and Senate leaders.
"I want to be clear: without congressional action, by the end of the year we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine and to provide equipment from U.S. military stocks," Young wrote. "There is no magical pot of funding available to meet this moment. We are out of money—and nearly out of time."
Zelenskyy Meets with American Lawmakers to Discuss Ukraine Crisis
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with American lawmakers this week at the White House to discuss the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Zelenskyy had initially planned to address the lawmakers last week but had to cancel at the last moment.
During the meeting, Senator Chuck Schumer highlighted that this would have been the third time Zelenskyy addressed senators since Russia invaded Ukraine. Schumer emphasized the urgent need for aid from Congress, stating that without it, Ukraine does not have the means to defeat Russian President Vladimir Putin.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the meeting aimed to underscore the United States' unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russia's invasion. As Russia escalates its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine, the leaders discussed Ukraine's immediate needs and the crucial importance of continued support from the United States.
Secretary of State Announces $175 Million Military Aid Package for Ukraine
Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Wednesday a $175 million package of military aid to Ukraine. The aid package includes air defense munitions, additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, and artillery ammunition.
Blinken emphasized the urgency of passing the President's national security supplemental funding request, as this would be one of the last security assistance packages that can be provided to Ukraine without further congressional action. He called on Congress to act immediately to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support.
