Ukraine Gears Up for Potential Russian Offensive
Russia has solidified its presence in eastern Ukraine with a relentless onslaught of missiles and shells, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to prepare soldiers for a potential Russian offensive.
Crucial Aid Deal Passed by US House
Hours after the United States House approved a vital aid package worth $61 billion for Ukraine in the midst of the ongoing conflict with Russia, Zelensky emphasized the importance of foreign aid translating into tangible weapon systems, particularly essential long-range artillery.
Next Steps for the Aid Bill
The $61 billion aid bill for Ukraine is set to move to the Senate and ultimately to President Biden for final approval.
Ukraine’s Readiness and Call for Support
Zelensky, speaking to ‘Meet the Press,’ expressed the country’s readiness to combat an anticipated “full-scale” attack from Russia, underscoring the urgency of receiving necessary supplies before any potential escalation.
“We are preparing. The personnel is preparing. The soldiers are engaged in training,” Zelensky stated during the interview. “And I don’t want to repeat myself, but we are waiting for the weapon systems because we want to have the brigade fully equipped.”
Appeal for Assistance
Highlighting the imminent threat of a major offensive by Russia, Zelensky called for support from Ukraine’s allies, including the United States, to bolster the country’s defense capabilities.
“We not only need to prepare, we not only need to stabilize the situation,” Zelensky emphasized. “We need help now.”
Ensuring Adequate Equipment
Zelensky stressed the importance of providing Ukrainian soldiers with the necessary equipment to counter Russian aggression, including artillery shells and tools to combat reconnaissance drones.
“They need to fight Russian reconnaissance drones, which essentially guide the artillery,” Zelensky explained. “And we need artillery shells.”
