Biden Urges Congress to Negotiate Long-Term Funding Solution for Ukraine Aid

Washington, D.C. (AP) – President Joe Biden has reassured allies of continued U.S. financial support for Ukraine in the fight against Russia, despite a short-term funding package that dropped assistance for the country.

In remarks from the Roosevelt Room on Sunday, Biden said that American aid to Ukraine will keep flowing for now, but noted that the funding bill only lasts until mid-November. He urged Congress to negotiate an aid package as soon as possible.

“We cannot under any circumstances allow American for Ukraine to be interrupted,” Biden said. “We have time, not much time and there’s an overwhelming sense of urgency.”

The President’s comments come after Congress voted late Saturday to avert a government shutdown by passing a short-term funding package. This week on Face the Nation, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, and Trump administration Secretary of Defense Mark Esper discussed the crisis and the need for a long-term funding solution.

In a dramatic 11th-hour vote, the House of Representatives passed the bill by a margin of 301-123, with the Senate following suit shortly after. The bill will keep the government funded until November 21, giving Congress more time to negotiate a longer-term solution.

The President’s remarks on Sunday were a reminder that the clock is ticking and that a long-term solution is needed to ensure the continued flow of American aid to Ukraine. With the November 21 deadline looming, Congress will need to act quickly to ensure that the aid continues to flow.