In a turn of events for Ukraine's battle for additional funding, the White House has hinted at major policy reforms on the southern border to garner support from Republicans for furthering aid to Ukraine in its ongoing clash with Russia. As per President Biden, the failure of Congress to pass an aid package would result in a significant advantage for the Russian president - possibly the best Christmas gift.
Former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko emphasized the need for speedy action and warned against treating Ukraine as a bargaining chip in internal discussions. He asserted that current conditions in Ukraine represented significant democratic values while highlighting the nation's struggle for freedom.
During the interview, Poroshenko recounted the damages caused by recent Russian ballistic and cruise missile attacks. Situated in Kiev himself, Poroshenko divulged the city's troubling reality, with missiles landing terrifyingly close to residential areas, causing heavy injuries, including children.
As evidence of the sheer magnitude of the crisis faced by Ukraine, he pointed out the hundreds of FPV drones delivered to troops in the eastern front line. These 'kamikaze drones' are being deployed due to an alarming shortage of ammunition. He expressed gratitude for the leadership of President Biden and the bipartisan support from the United States Congress.
Poroshenko stressed that any delay in aid would inevitably lead to more Ukrainian civilian casualties. However, he urged for swift action for another reason, suggesting that $1 spent to halt Putin's advancement in Ukraine would save $10 that would be required to combat Putin outside of Ukraine, making it a cost-effective 'investment'. He closed with the realization of the grim reality that Ukraine would have to continue its fight even if aid does not come in, though at a much higher - possibly devastating - cost.
