The approval of US aid to Ukraine has sparked strong reactions from Russia, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warning that it would only lead to more damage and deaths in the conflict-ridden region. Peskov was quoted as saying that the decision would make the US richer, further ruin Ukraine, and result in the deaths of more Ukrainians, blaming the Kyiv regime for the escalation.
The House of Representatives approved a legislative package providing $60.84 billion to Ukraine, including $23 billion to replenish US weapons, stocks, and facilities. The package is now set to go to the US Senate for expected approval next week before reaching President Joe Biden’s desk for signing.
Peskov also criticized provisions in the legislation that would allow the US administration to confiscate seized Russian assets and transfer them to Ukraine for reconstruction, saying it would tarnish the image of the United States and prompt retaliatory measures from Russia.
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev echoed similar sentiments, calling the approval of US aid for Ukraine “Russophobia” and expressing confidence in Russia’s victory despite the financial support for Ukraine.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova also condemned the approval of aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, warning that it would deepen crises worldwide and accusing the US of sponsoring terrorist activity in Ukraine, interfering in China’s internal affairs with Taiwan, and escalating tensions in the Middle East with Israel.
The controversial approval of US aid to Ukraine has further strained relations between Russia and the US, with both sides digging in their heels in the ongoing conflict.