What's happened
With Donald Trump's inauguration approaching, the Biden administration is expediting over $6 billion in military aid to Ukraine. This effort aims to bolster Ukraine's defenses against Russia amid concerns that Trump may cut off support once in office. The urgency reflects a broader strategy to secure Ukraine's position before potential policy shifts.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Andrew Roth in The Guardian, the Biden administration is racing against time to deliver military aid to Ukraine before Trump's inauguration, emphasizing that 'walking away from Ukraine means more instability in Europe.' Meanwhile, Business Insider UK highlights the logistical challenges of expediting aid, noting that 'it'll be a heavy lift' to ensure shipments arrive before mid-January. The Guardian also reports on the mixed sentiments in Ukraine, with President Zelenskyy expressing hope for continued cooperation despite the uncertainty surrounding US support under Trump. This reflects a broader anxiety among Ukrainian officials about the future of military assistance as they brace for potential changes in US policy.
How we got here
As the Biden administration nears the end of its term, it faces pressure to deliver military assistance to Ukraine. The ongoing Russian invasion has prompted calls for expedited aid, especially with Trump's election raising fears of reduced US support for Ukraine's defense efforts.
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