A big, new package of US military aid will help Ukraine avoid defeat in its war with Russia. The $61 billion aid package includes arms and ammunition that should enable Ukraine to slow the Russian army’s advances and block its strikes on troops and civilians. It will also buy Ukraine time for long-term planning on how to retake the territory under Russian control. The aid approval means Ukraine may be able to release artillery ammunition from dwindling stocks that it has been rationing. More equipment is expected to come from American stocks in Poland and Germany, and later from the US.
However, there are concerns that logistical challenges and bureaucracy could delay the shipments to Ukraine, and it may take even longer for the aid to reach the front line. Ukraine’s most urgent needs are artillery shells to stop Russian troops from advancing, and anti-aircraft missiles to protect people and infrastructure. While the details of the shipments are classified, it is uncertain if what is coming first will meet the front-line commanders’ most immediate needs.
Many experts believe that both Ukraine and Russia are exhausted by two years of war and won’t be able to mount a major offensive until next year. However, Russia is still pushing forward at several points along the front, using tanks, infantry troops, and gliding bombs to pummel Ukrainian forces. Ukraine’s goal now is to hold the line until the bulk of new supplies arrive by mid-summer. After that, they can focus on trying to recapture recently lost territory.
The US funding is expected to stabilize Ukraine’s position for this year and allow time for reorganizing and training its army. It may also encourage Ukraine’s allies in Europe to increase their aid. However, there are variables beyond Ukraine’s control. The US promises to send certain weapons, but they have arrived late or not at all in the past. Russia, on the other hand, is using its advantage in troops and weapons to push back Ukrainian forces and make gains before the new supplies arrive.
Ukraine’s aim in the war is to recapture all its territory from Russia, including Crimea, which was seized illegally in 2014. Even if the war ultimately ends through negotiation, Ukraine wants to do it from as strong a position as possible. However, there are challenges, including the stance of leaders like Donald Trump, who has promised to end the war, and European Union leaders who oppose arming Ukraine.
In conclusion, while the US aid will provide significant support to Ukraine in its war with Russia, there are still challenges to be overcome. Delays in shipments, concern about escalation, and depleted stocks among Ukraine’s allies all pose obstacles to Ukraine’s efforts to repel Russia.
