Biden Points to Congressional Stalemate for Ukrainian City's Loss

In a dialogue with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, President Joe Biden attributed the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Avdiivka, a key town, to Congress's delay in passing further aid, affecting Ukraine's defense against Russia.

The White House revealed that the Ukrainian military's retreat from the pivotal eastern city was due to an ammunition shortage, a direct result of congressional inaction.

The administration stressed the critical need for Congress to approve the national security funding bill to support Ukraine's military needs.

In a week aimed at reinforcing U.S. global leadership, the conversation highlighted the essential requirement for additional aid to Ukraine, particularly following the strategic setback in Avdiivka and the demise of Russian dissident Alexey Navalny.

Biden voiced apprehension over the potential loss of more Ukrainian cities and condemned the insufficient American support as morally wrong, in light of the Ukrainian populace's bravery.

Although the Senate passed a significant foreign aid package, including support for Ukraine, it faces hurdles in the House, with GOP Speaker Mike Johnson showing reluctance to bring it to a vote, amidst a congressional break. This delay has heightened U.S. concerns over potential gains for Russian forces.

The National Security Council emphasized the immediate impact of congressional delays on Avdiivka's situation, calling for swift House action on the aid package.

Vice President Kamala Harris and President Zelensky have both called on Congress to accelerate aid, with Harris labeling the delay as harmful to an ally confronting unjust aggression, in remarks at the Munich Security Conference alongside Zelensky.