After the United States, Germany stands as Kyiv's primary military ally. The German leader voiced optimism about facilitating progress to allow the U.S. to resume providing Ukraine with multibillion-dollar aid.
Image - US President, Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Joe Biden urged US lawmakers on Friday to approve a military aid package for Ukraine, highlighting its critical role in preventing Russia's invasion. In the Oval Office, Biden expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, "The failure of the United States Congress in not supporting Ukraine is close to criminal neglect. It is outrageous."
Behind the United States, Germany serves as Kyiv's largest military ally. The German leader expressed optimism about facilitating progress to enable the U.S. to resume providing multibillion-dollar aid to Ukraine.
"Without the support of the United States and without the support of European states, Ukraine would not have a chance to defend its own country," Scholz emphasized. He conveyed confidence that the American Congress would ultimately make such a decision.
Scholz also criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling his recent interview with US talk show host Tucker Carlson as "ridiculous" and accused Putin of "telling a lot of lies." He described Putin's ambitions as imperialistic, aiming to acquire a part of his neighbors' territory.
On the issue of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, imprisoned in Russia, Biden did not provide a response. Putin hinted at a potential prisoner swap, suggesting Gershkovich's release in exchange for a Russian convict involved in an assassination in Berlin.
The focus of the day remained on Ukraine, facing its third year of war against the Russian invasion. Political challenges in Washington have left Kyiv short of crucial ammunition, while Putin's forces continue their slow advances in eastern Ukraine. The US Senate debates a bill authorizing $60 billion in military aid for Kyiv, but the Republican-led House poses a significant hurdle, linking Ukraine aid to demands for stricter action on the Mexican border.
Scholz, referring to the war in Ukraine, called it the most significant crisis, impacting security and peace globally. The meeting also addressed escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas. Biden expressed criticism of Israel's military operation in Gaza, stating it has been "over the top."
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