U.S. leaders push allies to step up aid to Ukraine as they await further funding from Congress

Hannah Brandt
·2 min read
1

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The U.S. is asking allies to step up support to Ukraine as leaders wait for Congress to approve more aid.

In a call with around 50 other countries, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told allies their continued support for Ukraine’s war effort is critical.

“The security of the entire international community is on the line in Ukraine’s fight,” Austin said.

The U.S. is out of funding to send to Ukraine. Until Congress approves additional aid, it will be on other nations to bridge the gap.

“I urge this group to dig deep to provide Ukraine with more lifesaving, ground-based air defense systems and interceptors,” Austin said.

Congress is considering a Biden administration request to send billions more to Ukraine. Republicans say they won’t vote for it without border reform, leaving the package caught up in negotiations.

Lead Senate Democratic negotiator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) says they have just a few issues left to resolve.

“We are at the finish line,” Murphy said.

Top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell is on board with the effort to get more help to Ukraine.

“This is a situation that cries out for American leadership,” McConnell said.

Some Republicans oppose sending more money to Ukraine altogether. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) argues there isn’t enough accountability for the aid the U.S. has already sent.

“Nobody’s really describing where the next $60 billion is going to go to as well. So again, Ukraine funding is not that popular,” Johnson said.

The White House warns if the U.S. abandons Ukraine, other countries may follow.

“They’re all looking to us for leadership. They all want to know where we’re going to be here, you know a couple months,” National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby said.

As the war approaches its two-year mark, Senate leader Chuck Schumer says this funding decision will make a critical difference.

“If Congress fails to act Ukraine faces defeat,” Schumer said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.