The US Prepares to Send New Aid to Ukraine as Concerns Over How to Defeat Putin Grow

President Zelensky and US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries during the Ukrainian President’s visit to the United States to advocate for additional aid. Photo: AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

As the war in Ukraine drags on, many look to the United States for a clear strategy to defeat Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a recent press interaction, President Joe Biden said his message to President Putin is to “stop.” This vague statement underscores the West’s uncertainty about how to curb Putin’s escalating aggression. 

Although the US has shifted its primary focus toward the upcoming presidential election, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is advocating for the inclusion of long-range missiles in the next aid package from Congress.

Before his trip to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly, Zelensky had been pitching his “victory plan,” which he believes will secure Ukraine’s success after over two years of war. A key component of this plan relies on obtaining US approval to use long-range missiles on targets in Russia. However, this victory plan is not immediate and requires sustained, substantial aid from the US government over the coming months.

Congress has been working to address Zelensky’s demands, but the lack of a budget consensus threatens a government shutdown. Thus far, President Biden and other high-ranking US officials have been reluctant to equip Zelensky and the Ukrainian military with destructive weapons such as long-range missiles.

United States Capitol Building, where members of Congress are currently discussing and debating the aid package that will be sent to Ukraine to aid their war effort. Photo: AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

Several factors could impact future US aid to the Ukrainian war effort. If Congress fails to reach a budget agreement by the end of the fiscal year, the US will face a government shutdown, preventing aid packages from being sent until the shutdown ends. Additionally, the outcome of the 2024 presidential election will determine how future aid, if any, will be provided. President Zelensky is scheduled to meet with both candidates this week in hopes of securing their support, though their willingness or ability to meet his demands remains uncertain. Ultimately, the outcome of this war depends on the United States’ ability to find a strategic solution to counter Putin’s imperial ambitions.

As of now, the United States has not committed to sending any long-range missiles to Ukraine. However, medium-range missiles are likely to be included as part of the $375 million aid package currently under negotiation. While the final contents of the package remain uncertain, it is expected to be the most substantial package of US aid since March.  

The United States’ involvement in the Russian-Ukraine conflict remains unchanged — while there is no definitive way to halt Putin’s ambitions, the focus is on equipping Ukraine with the resources necessary to defeat him.