Public US support for Ukraine means more than money – diplomat Chaly

This perspective was shared during an interview on Espreso.

"We have $300 million in the budget—not a huge amount, but it's confirmed, and a decision has been made. The government should assess the comprehensive impact if some funds become unavailable. This necessitates collaboration, especially with the European Union, Japan, and the Netherlands. In essence, it won't be a catastrophe," the diplomat stated.

Chaly clarified that Ukraine can rely on lend-lease support. He expressed optimism about a favorable bilateral agreement with the USA for Ukraine, without the obligatory return of weapons.

"However, it's not just about money; it's a signal to Putin and Moscow about the broader stance of the United States—both the White House and Congress. There's a risk of increasing Republicans during elections, fueling populist slogans to keep funds in America. Time is crucial. If done swiftly, we can secure a result, and it's vital that the US maintains its leadership—perhaps even more crucial than the money itself," the diplomat concluded.

Shutdown and the importance of voting on the budget resolution for Ukraine

A government shutdown occurs when part of the American government stops working due to the lack of an approved budget, which allocates funds for government agency operations. It happens when the current budget period expires. Originally slated for September 30, the potential shutdown was set to commence on October 1. However, Congress can prevent this by passing a temporary extension of the budget period.

Voting for the budget resolution is crucial to avoid a shutdown. If Congress doesn't approve the budget for the next fiscal year by September 30, a shutdown could ensue from October 1. Conversely, passing a budget resolution enables government spending until lawmakers pass a budget law.

Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US State Department, previously warned that a shutdown might impact the speed of supplying weapons to US partners. Despite this, a bipartisan majority in Congress remains supportive of continuing aid to Ukraine.

On September 30, Kevin McCarthy, the speaker of the US House of Representatives, proposed excluding funds for aid to Ukraine from the bill on additional expenses.

On November 14, the US House of Representatives passed a bill for temporary government funding until January 19, excluding funds for Ukraine and Israel to avert a shutdown.

On November 16, US President Joe Biden signed a law providing temporary funding for the US government without support for Ukraine and Israel.