WASHINGTON, D.C. – Continued funding for Ukraine in their war against the Russian invasion could be impacted by who becomes the next Speaker of the House. More republicans are beginning to pull back their support for continued aid, citing concerns over accountability.
On Thursday, Ukrainians are picking up the pieces from a strike in eastern Ukraine on a cafe and shop. Officials said around 50 civilians, including children, died in the attack. It’s considered to be the highest civilian death in an attack since the war began. The White House calls the attack horrifying.
“This is why we’re doing everything that we can to help Ukraine to help the brave people of Ukraine to fight for their freedom to fight for their democracy,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
The White House is looking to keep giving aid to Ukraine but they said the long-term commitment is up to congress. Recently, congress approved of a short-term continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded through mid-November. But that CR left out funding for Ukraine. The CR was passed following a visit from Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after meeting with members, asking to keep supporting them in the war.
“We are thankful for your support to journalists, to Senators, to Congress,” said Zelenskyy. “We discussed details but cannot share with you, sorry.”
Now that the House is without a Speaker and more House republican support for Ukraine funding continues to erode, a dark cloud has been cast over the future of aid for Ukraine.
“I’ve been clear there are two fundamental questions,” said Rep. Jim Jordan (R- OH). “What’s the goal? Second question. You can tell us what the goal is, how is the money being spent?.How can we account for that? I think the American people are entitled to know the answer to those two questions before we continue to spend their hard earned money to protect Ukraine’s border while we have problems at our own border.”
With the exception of House republicans, there is strong support for continued aid to Ukraine.
