New US Aid Package for Ukraine: A Prolongation of Agony, According to Russia

US Announces $275 Million Aid Package for Ukraine

On Friday, the Biden administration disclosed a new $275 million aid package intended for Ukraine. The aid is meant to cater to Ukraine's "urgent battlefield needs" and is expected to include a significant amount of much-needed artillery shells. US sources have estimated that Russia's artillery outpaces that of Ukraine by a ratio of ten to one. This new aid package comes at a time when Ukrainian forces are being pushed back in the Kharkiv oblast, leading to increased desperation from the West. However, Russia has expressed that the ongoing supply of new weapons and munitions to Kiev will only extend the suffering of Ukrainians and the Zelensky government.

Russia's Response to the Aid Package

Anatoly Antonov, Russia’s ambassador to the US, has commented on the situation. He stated, "It is emblematic" that "the US announces this supply of deadly products from the local defense industry on the very same day when the Russian leadership clearly and unequivocally confirmed its readiness for negotiations." It has been reported that President Putin is indicating his readiness for negotiations if it means 'freezing' the current lines, which "must reflect realities on the ground" - as per his words on Friday.

Putin's Frustration and Future Negotiations

According to sources familiar with the discussions in Putin's entourage, the Russian leader has expressed frustration about what he perceives as Western-backed attempts to hinder negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's decision to rule out talks. Any scenario that sees the current lines frozen would mean Ukraine would have to concede substantial portions of four Ukrainian regions. In Kharkiv, for example, where a new Russian offensive is underway, the border has been pushed further into Ukrainian territory over the past few weeks.

Putin Questions Zelensky's Legitimacy

Putin has also commented on the cancellation of the presidential election that was supposed to take place in Ukraine this month under martial law. As long as the war continues, Zelensky will remain president. Consequently, Putin has denounced him as illegitimate. "But with whom to negotiate? That’s a peculiar question, I agree," Putin said during a press briefing, emphasizing that "the legitimacy of the incumbent head of the [Ukrainian] state has expired."

US Government's Long Term Goal

Meanwhile, the US government has not been secretive about stating its ultimate long term goal. They plan to take tangible steps to increase NATO’s role in building a capable Ukrainian force, supporting its ongoing reforms, and better integrating Ukraine into the Alliance.

What's your take on this?

This development raises several questions about the future of Ukraine and the ongoing conflict. What do you think about the US's aid package and Russia's response? Share your thoughts and this article with your friends. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.