WASHINGTON: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday welcomed the decision by the US House of Representatives to allocate $61 billion in long-awaited aid for Ukraine, asserting that it shows that Ukraine will not to become “a second Afghanistan.”
The House’s approval of the substantial package of military and economic assistance comes as Ukraine continues to face Russian aggression more than two years since Moscow’s invasion of its Eastern European neighbor.
In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Zelensky expressed gratitude for the aid, stating that it will bolster Ukraine’s resilience and convey a strong message to the Kremlin.
“This aid will strengthen Ukraine and send the Kremlin a powerful signal that it will not be the second Afghanistan,” Zelensky emphasized. “The United States will stay with Ukraine, will protect Ukrainians, and… they will protect democracy in the world.”
Zelensky drew parallels with the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, which led to a protracted conflict and eventual US military intervention. He underscored the importance of timely assistance in equipping Ukrainian forces to address their operational challenges.
Acknowledging the exhaustion among Ukrainian troops, Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for replacement brigades and adequate equipment to bolster their capabilities on the frontlines.
The passage of the aid bills by the House culminated months of negotiations and appeals from Zelensky for support. Despite the delay in approval, the bills signify a renewed commitment by the United States to Ukraine’s defense efforts against Russian aggression.
The Senate’s approval and President Joe Biden’s anticipated swift signature are now awaited, with assurances from the Pentagon of expedited delivery of aid to Ukraine.
