Biden concerned that political turmoil could disrupt war aid to Ukraine

(Patria) - President Joe Biden admitted on Wednesday that he is concerned that American political turmoil could disrupt war aid to Ukraine, but said he would soon give a major speech to convince doubters to support Kyiv, AFP reported.

"It concerns me," Biden said when asked if the ouster of Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy could halt more funds for Ukraine's war effort.

"But I know there is a majority of members of the House and Senate of both parties who have said they support funding Ukraine," he told reporters at the White House.

A deal to avoid a US government "shutdown" over the weekend did not include new funds for Ukraine, and hopes for a quick resolution were further dimmed by McCarthy's ouster. Biden's comment reflects a shift in tone, as the White House had previously said the president told allies on a call Tuesday that he was "confident" new aid would come through.

The US president said he would now make the case for the importance of aiding Ukraine as it battles Russia's invasion.

"I am going to be announcing shortly a major speech I'm going to give on this issue and why it is critical for the United States and our allies that we maintain our commitment," Biden said.

He added that the speech would "make the case that it is overwhelmingly in the interest of the United States that Ukraine succeed."

Biden declined to say when he would give the speech, and the White House said it had no further details.
The United States is by far Kyiv's largest supporter, having provided more than $43 billion in military aid to Kyiv so far, while Congress has approved a total of $113 billion in aid including humanitarian assistance.