Biden asks Congress for $40 billion to support Ukraine, replenish US disaster aid and bolster border

Biden Administration Seeks $13 Billion Emergency Defense Aid for Ukraine, $8 Billion for Humanitarian Support

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In response to the ongoing Russian invasion and Ukraine's counteroffensive, the Biden administration has urgently requested Congress for over $13 billion in emergency defense aid to Ukraine, along with an additional $8 billion for humanitarian assistance until year-end. This move reflects a substantial infusion of funds aimed at supporting Ukraine's efforts against deeply entrenched Kremlin forces.

The proposed package encompasses multiple aspects, including allocating $12 billion to replenish U.S. federal disaster funds following a severe climate season and to reinforce border enforcement with Mexico, focusing on curtailing the influx of dangerous fentanyl. Collectively, the proposal amounts to a comprehensive $40 billion package.

Unlike the previous approval of Ukraine funding in 2022, the current political landscape presents a more divided scenario. The Republican-led House is under intense pressure to showcase support for their party's leader, Donald Trump, who has expressed skepticism towards the conflict. Meanwhile, public support for the endeavor has been gradually decreasing.

Shalanda Young, White House budget director, has emphasized the importance of swift action to fulfill the U.S. commitment to Ukraine's defense and democracy. The request is strategically crafted to gain bipartisan support, including from Republicans, by addressing domestic priorities such as border issues, a significant focus for the GOP.

However, the proposed $40 billion funding could face resistance from Republicans who aim to reduce federal outlays instead of increasing them. As a supplemental request, the package lies beyond the budget caps agreed upon in the debt ceiling negotiations earlier this year.

While Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expresses strong bipartisan backing in the Senate, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell approaches the request more cautiously, emphasizing the need for careful review to ensure appropriateness and necessity.

President Joe Biden and his security team have reiterated the United States' commitment to assist Ukraine until the Russian threat is eliminated. Yet, concerns persist within the U.S. Congress and public about the ongoing costs and potential consequences of a seemingly indefinite conflict.

Public sentiment towards providing Ukraine with weaponry and economic assistance has wavered over time. An AP-NORC poll conducted in January 2023 showed declining support, with 48% favoring providing weapons to Ukraine compared to 60% in May 2022. Both Democrats and Republicans have experienced drops in support for offering weaponry.

Considering the reservations expressed by some Republicans, securing approval for Ukraine aid might rely heavily on a coalition led by Democrats.

The proposed funding isn't limited to Ukraine; it also includes resources to counter Russian and Chinese influence globally, bolstering the World Bank, and aiding efforts against Russian-aligned Wagner forces in Africa. Domestically, it addresses issues such as wildfires and border management, while also allocating funds for child labor violation investigations.

To facilitate passage, Congress could attach the package to essential government funding measures required to prevent a federal office shutdown by October 1.

Questions about aid monitoring and usage have arisen, prompting scrutiny over how closely the U.S. tracks aid sent to Ukraine. The Pentagon asserts its robust monitoring program to ensure aid reaches the intended recipients.

Ukraine's ongoing counteroffensive aims to dislodge entrenched Kremlin forces, despite facing challenging terrain and fortified defenses.

The U.S. has previously approved substantial aid for Ukraine, totaling around $113 billion, to respond to Russia's invasion. Although the latest aid package, approved in December, was intended to last through the fiscal year, its sustainability depends on evolving events.

The Pentagon remains committed to supporting Ukraine's defense efforts, while the political landscape continues to evolve, potentially impacting future decisions regarding aid and involvement.