Zelensky states Russia took control as US support was delayed

In a recent statement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his frustration over the delay in American military support, allowing Russia to gain the upper hand on the battlefield. Zelensky highlighted the critical shortages of key artillery and air defense munitions faced by Ukrainian forces as they awaited a decision from the United States.

During a virtual meeting with international supporters, Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for sufficient and timely support to help Ukrainian defenders stabilize the front and advance towards their goals in the ongoing conflict. He warned that Russian success in Ukraine could embolden further aggression from predatory regimes like Russia.

The United States, a key military backer of Ukraine, has committed over $44 billion in security assistance since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. However, political debates in Congress had stalled large-scale funding for Ukraine for nearly a year and a half, only recently making progress to provide new assistance.

A senior U.S. defense official acknowledged that the aid from the United States and other countries would help Ukraine regain the initiative on the battlefield, but cautioned that the process would not be immediate. Rebuilding and reinforcing Ukrainian positions with the new supplies would take time, and a large-scale offensive in the near-term was not anticipated.

As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the international community remains vigilant in supporting Ukrainian efforts to defend their sovereignty and push back against Russian aggression.