In a pivotal move amidst ongoing tensions, President Joe Biden signed into law a $95 billion war aid measure on Wednesday, addressing critical needs for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The legislation also carries a significant provision that could potentially alter the landscape of social media, requiring TikTok to either be sold or face a ban in the United States.

At a White House event to mark the signing, President Biden expressed relief, stating, “We rose to the moment, we came together, and we got it done. Now we need to move fast, and we are.”

The long-awaited approval of the aid package signifies the end of a protracted battle with Republicans in Congress over the dire need for assistance to Ukraine. However, the delay has undoubtedly taken its toll on efforts to support Ukraine in repelling Russia’s aggression.

Despite the infusion of aid, including a $61 billion allocation specifically for Ukraine, challenges loom large. Ukrainian forces, beleaguered by months of setbacks, face an uphill battle in the wake of significant damage to infrastructure and morale.

John Kirby, White House national security spokesman, acknowledged the uphill struggle, stating, “It’s not going in the Ukrainians’ favor in the Donbas, certainly not elsewhere in the country. Mr. Putin thinks he can play for time. So we’ve got to try to make up some of that time.”

The urgency of the situation is underscored by Russia’s renewed focus on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. With Russian forces targeting key infrastructure and positioning for a potential summer offensive, the need for immediate support is evident.

However, the delay in aid, exacerbated by internal party divisions, has raised concerns about Ukraine’s ability to withstand Russian aggression. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell warned, “Delay in providing Ukraine the weapons to defend itself has strained the prospects of defeating Russian aggression. Dithering and hesitation have compounded the challenges we face.”

Military experts emphasize the importance of sustained support for Ukraine, highlighting the need for realistic expectations and long-term commitment. Bradley Bowman, a defense strategy and policy analyst, emphasized, “Realistic goals for the months ahead for Ukraine — and its allies — include avoiding the loss of major cities, slowing Russia’s momentum, and getting additional weaponry to Kyiv.”

While the aid package provides essential resources, the road ahead remains fraught with uncertainty. As tensions persist, the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance, contingent upon continued international support and resolve.

Credit: AP