Ukrainian and Western leaders laud US aid package while the Kremlin warns of 'further ruin'

NEW DELHI: Ukrainian and Western leaders welcomed with relief a crucial aid package approved by the US House of Representative. In contrast, the Kremlin has condemned the bill, arguing that its approval will only exacerbate Ukraine's plight and result in more casualties.
The House acted swiftly, approving $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and other American allies during an unusual Saturday session.This bipartisan move signals a unified effort after enduring months of opposition, particularly from the hard-right, regarding increased US support in repelling Russia's invasion.
The $61 billion aid package for Ukraine sailed through with an overwhelming vote, passing in a matter of minutes. On the House floor, numerous Democrats cheered and proudly waved Ukrainian flags in a show of solidarity.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had warned that his country's ability to sustain the conflict relied heavily US funding, expressed gratitude for the decision made by US lawmakers.
"We appreciate every sign of support for our country and its independence, people and way of life, which Russia is attempting to bury under the rubble," Zelenskyy wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
"America has demonstrated its leadership since the first days of this war. Exactly this type of leadership is required to maintain a rules-based international order and predictability for all nations," he said.
The Ukrainian president emphasised that the aid package would directly benefit the "warriors on the front lines" of the conflict. One such soldier is infantryman Oleksandr, currently engaged in combat around Avdiivka, a city in the Donetsk region that Ukraine lost to Russia in February following months of intense fighting.
"For us, the support from the US and our allies is incredibly important," Oleksandr told to The Associated Press, opting not to disclose his full name for security reasons. "With this aid, we can better defend ourselves and minimize our losses. It's a crucial step towards reclaiming our territory."
A shortage of ammunition due to delays in aid delivery has forced Ukrainian military leaders to ration shells, leaving them at a disadvantage that Russia has exploited.
This has allowed Russia to capture the city of Avdiivka and advance towards Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region. Ukrainian commander Oleksandr expressed the challenges they face, stating, "The Russians attack us relentlessly, forcing us to retreat due to exhaustion as we lack sufficient ammunition to defend our territory."
Leaders from Western countries praised the approval of the aid package, with Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg highlighting Ukraine's use of Nato-provided weapons to weaken Russian capabilities.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised Ukraine's need for support against Russia. In contrast, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov viewed the aid approval as expected, accusing the US of benefiting economically while causing harm to Ukraine.
Russian state Duma Committee on International Affairs head Leonid Slutsky criticised the aid package, predicting it would escalate the conflict and result in more casualties. The aid package is now set to be reviewed by the US Senate for potential approval as soon as Tuesday, with president Joe Biden committed to signing it promptly.
The ongoing challenges faced by the Ukrainian military due to ammunition shortages and Russia's aggressive advances underscore the urgency of international support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. The aid package approval represents a crucial step in bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities in the face of mounting threats.
(With agency inputs)