Photo credit Source : www.washingtonpost.com
U.S. Weapons Aid to Ukraine Expected to Blunt Russia’s Advance, But Major Offensive Momentum Unlikely Until 2025
After months of partisan gridlock, Congress has finally passed a major aid package to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invading forces. The $61 billion package includes crucial weapons and equipment that will give Ukraine a fighting chance against Moscow’s firepower advantage.
Initial shipments of artillery shells, air defense missiles, and armored vehicles are expected to reach Ukraine soon, providing much-needed support to replenish military ranks and strengthen battlefield defenses. This influx of U.S. weapons is seen as a lifeline for Ukraine, which has been struggling to defend itself against Russian attacks.
President Zelensky has emphasized the importance of quick resupply to give Ukraine a chance for victory. However, challenges remain, including an acute troop shortage and the need for more recruits to bolster the military’s ranks. The Biden administration is aware of these challenges and is working on a two-tiered approach to help Ukraine in the long term.
Despite the setbacks Ukraine has faced in recent years, there is hope that with the new capabilities provided by Western nations, including long-range missiles and fighter jets, Ukraine can turn the tide in its favor. The focus now is on mobilizing more troops and improving the country’s physical defenses to prepare for an expected Russian offensive.
As Ukraine prepares for the future, the Biden administration is also gearing up for a major NATO summit in July. While Ukraine may not receive an invitation to join NATO at the summit, there are calls for the country to be offered a realistic path to membership once it meets the alliance’s requirements.
Overall, the approval of the aid package is a significant step forward for Ukraine, but the road ahead is still challenging. With the support of the U.S. and its allies, Ukraine is hopeful that it can regain momentum and defend its sovereignty against Russian aggression.