Congress has passed a $60.8 billion aid package to support Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, providing the country with much-needed weapons, munitions, and training. The aid, which will be delivered within days, is expected to bolster Ukraine’s defenses in the face of Russia’s relentless assaults.
Polish President Andrzej Duda has contradicted Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s recent assertion that Europe is entering a “pre-war era.” While Tusk warned of potential military conflict if Ukraine is not adequately supported, Duda expressed confidence in credible deterrence as a means to prevent war. Duda suggested arming up as a strategy to maintain power and avoid becoming a target of attack.
Russia has warned that it may confiscate Western assets in response to a US House bill that would allow the transfer of seized Russian assets to Ukraine. The bill, known as the REPO Act, passed the House on Monday and would give the Biden administration authority to confiscate billions of dollars’ worth of Russian assets held in US banks and transfer them to Ukraine for reconstruction. Russia has argued that the bill is a provocation and that it could damage the European economy, as over 75% of Russia’s frozen assets are held in the EU.
Rep. Brandon Williams, R-Sennett, missed a series of House votes on foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan so that he could attend the funeral of slain Syracuse police officer Michael Jensen.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claims to have captured Novomykhailivka in eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine’s military reports repelling Russian advances in the area. EU foreign and defense ministers met in Luxembourg to discuss ongoing aid to Ukraine and extending sanctions against Iran. The head of Ukrainian military intelligence warns of a worsening situation on the front line in the coming weeks. Despite ammunition shortages, Ukraine continues to fortify its defenses.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has issued a stern warning to the European Union over its stance on Ukraine, stating that the EU’s current approach could lead to a breaking point. Orban emphasized that Hungary’s position is to adhere to NATO’s original mission as a defense alliance, criticizing the EU’s involvement in military matters without having military capabilities of its own. He also highlighted the contrasting views within Europe, pointing out that while many European governments support the war in Ukraine, Hungary and the Vatican advocate for peace. Orban suggested that European citizens might eventually pressure their governments to change their pro-war stance and called for a change in leadership in Brussels.
The U.S. House of Representatives has successfully passed two crucial Ukraine Aid Bills, H.R. 8035 and H.R. 8038, paving the way for approval in the Senate and subsequent signing by President Biden. This legislative achievement underscores the vital role of grassroots advocacy and will bolster global support for Ukraine.
