US House Passes $61 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine Amid Warnings from Kremlin

On Sunday, the US House of Representatives passed a substantial aid package for Ukraine, which was warmly welcomed by both Ukrainian and Western leaders. The $61 billion military aid package, including $13.8 billion for Ukraine to purchase weapons, is hoped to slow Russia’s incremental advances in the ongoing war.

Ukrainian President's Gratitude

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the decision of U.S. lawmakers, emphasizing that the aid package would send a powerful signal to the Kremlin that Ukraine will not succumb easily. Zelenskyy stressed the importance of the aid ending up in tangible weapon systems, particularly long-range weapons and air defense, to counter Russia's expected full-scale offensive.

Urgent Need for Aid

Due to previous delays in receiving promised support, Ukraine is in urgent need of the aid package, especially as ammunition shortages have led to disadvantages for the Ukrainian military. Infantry soldier Oleksandr, speaking from the front line, highlighted the critical role the aid would play in stopping Russian troops and reducing Ukrainian losses.

International Support

Other Western leaders, who have been seeking ways to fill the gap left by stalled U.S. military aid, also lauded the aid package. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine's use of the weapons provided by NATO Allies enhances safety for Europe and North America.

Russian Response

In contrast, the Kremlin warned that the aid package would further harm Ukraine and lead to more deaths. Russian officials expressed concern that the aid would prolong the conflict, resulting in additional casualties.

Concerns and Gratitude

Local analysts and experts in Ukraine expressed gratitude for the aid but highlighted that it was overdue and insufficient. They stressed the urgent need for additional resources and planning for future operations.

Developments on the Ground

Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry announced that its troops had taken control of a village in the Donetsk region. Additionally, a fatal incident involving Russian shelling and the detainment of suspects in the killing of a Ukrainian police officer were reported in Ukraine.