US Stands Firm in Supporting Ukraine Despite Congressional Aid Delays

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reassured that the US is committed to supporting Ukraine, stating "we will not let Ukraine fail." He made this statement during the 20th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.

During the meeting, Austin highlighted that Ukraine's military efforts are effectively weakening the capabilities of the Kremlin.

"Ukraine won’t back down, and neither will the United States,” Austin stated firmly while seated next to Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The message today is crystal clear: the United States, this coalition, and the free world will stand by Ukraine and ensure its success.

This trip marks Austin’s first official visit abroad since undergoing a prostate cancer procedure in December. Although he participated in the last two contact groups virtually due to complications from the procedure, Austin is now fully recovered and committed to supporting Ukraine.

Austin's remarks come at a time when US and allied officials are giving serious warnings about Ukraine facing a severe shortage of ammunition. A senior US defense official mentioned on Friday that Ukraine is at a major disadvantage in terms of firepower on the battlefield.

According to a senior European intelligence official, Russia is reportedly producing almost three times more artillery munitions than the US and Europe combined. They are estimated to be producing around 3 million munitions per year, while the US and Europe together are only producing approximately 1.2 million.

Russia's production is non-stop, massive," a European lawmaker shared with CNN. "We shouldn't overlook their determination to outlast us with patience and resilience."

When questioned on Friday about Ukraine's ability to continue the battle against Russia without increased US assistance, the official mentioned that it relied on various factors, such as Russia's actions in the situation.

The official emphasized that the timeframe for resolution is not years, but rather weeks and months.

Austin highlighted various statistics showing the extent of Russia's casualties and financial losses. He mentioned that over 315,000 Russian troops have been injured or killed since February 2022. Additionally, Russia has spent up to $211 billion on its aggressive actions in Ukraine. Austin also stated that the war would result in a loss of $1.3 trillion in economic growth for Russia through 2026.

"According to Austin, around 20 medium-to-large Russian Navy vessels have been sunk, destroyed, or damaged by Ukraine. Additionally, Ukrainian forces are still successfully taking down Russian warplanes."

The fate of additional aid for Ukraine in Congress is uncertain. House Speaker Mike Johnson assured Republican senators at their recent closed-door retreat that he is dedicated to finding a way forward for Ukraine aid in the House of Representatives. This signals to GOP senators that support for the struggling country is not completely lost in Congress.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, shared with CNN that Johnson expressed a clear understanding of the importance and urgency of the situation, and was actively seeking a way forward.

In the absence of the supplemental funding, the Pentagon recently announced a $300 million aid package. This decision was made possible due to financial savings from other US Army contracts. Defense Secretary Austin described the package as an “extraordinary measure,” emphasizing that the US and its allies will collaborate to address any gaps, coordinate cross-cutting needs, and assist Ukraine in strengthening its future military capabilities.

Officials have made it clear that the $300 million aid package would not sustain Ukraine for long. President Joe Biden expressed that the amount was insufficient, and national security adviser Jake Sullivan mentioned that it would only last Ukraine for a couple of weeks.

Defense Secretary Austin emphasized on Tuesday that Ukraine's survival is at stake, as well as our security. He reassured that we will stand united against Putin's aggressive actions and support the people of Ukraine.

Editor's P/S:

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has reached a critical juncture, with both sides facing immense challenges. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in their fight against Russian aggression is a testament to the global solidarity against Putin's brutal invasion. However, the severe shortage of ammunition that Ukraine faces threatens to undermine their efforts. Russia's relentless production of artillery munitions far outstrips that of the US and Europe, giving them a significant advantage on the battlefield. The dwindling supply of ammunition for Ukraine poses an urgent threat to their ability to defend their sovereignty and protect their people.

While the $300 million aid package announced by the Pentagon is a welcome step, it is insufficient to sustain Ukraine's defense in the long term. The uncertain fate of additional aid in Congress adds to the urgency of finding a solution. The US and its allies must work together to address this critical issue and ensure that Ukraine has the resources it needs to continue its fight for freedom and independence. The survival of Ukraine and the security of the free world depend on it.