A delegation of European parliamentarians, including representatives from the U.K., France, Spain, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic, visited Washington this week to advocate for increased support for Ukraine. Frustrated by what they perceive as a lack of urgency from U.S. lawmakers and the Biden administration, the group urged their American counterparts to overcome the current stalemate and provide essential funding for Ukraine’s defense against Russian forces.
The parliamentarians expressed concerns over the delay in passing a $100 billion supplemental bill, of which $61 billion is earmarked for weapons and military support for Ukraine. The Biden administration and Congress are currently grappling with bipartisan support for Ukraine funding, coupled with disagreements on border legislation.
Ali Ehsassi, Chair of the Canadian Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized the group’s plea for American engagement, focus, and collaboration in addressing the critical situation in Ukraine. The European allies perceive a growing indifference in the U.S. towards the prolonged delay in passing the necessary legislation.
Despite bipartisan support for funding Ukraine, disagreements between Democrats and Republicans have hindered progress. The European delegation criticized the Biden administration for what they see as allowing the opposition to shape foreign policy agendas.
While a White House official acknowledged the frustration over congressional inaction, they reaffirmed President Biden’s commitment to supporting Ukraine. The official stressed that securing more security assistance for Ukraine remains a top priority for the administration.
The visiting parliamentarians voiced their concerns about potential consequences if Ukraine is forced to curtail operations due to a lack of supplies. The issue is likely to impact discussions at the upcoming NATO summit in July, where hopes for Ukraine’s path to membership in the alliance will be discussed.
European leaders, particularly from Lithuania, urged Washington to avoid repeating the failure of the Vilnius summit and to actively support Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership. Concerns were raised that prolonged inaction could embolden Russian aggression not only in Ukraine but in other regions as well.
As the situation unfolds, the European delegation emphasizes the importance of timely and decisive action from the U.S. to address the security challenges in Ukraine, expressing their hope for increased attention to this issue during the upcoming NATO summit.
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