The White House has informed Congress that it is starting to run out of money to send to Ukraine as it continues its fight against Russia’s invasion.
White House budget director Shalanda Young sent a letter to Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson and other congressional leaders on Monday, saying that money and time were running out.
“I want to be clear: without congressional action, by the end of the year, we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine and to provide equipment from US military stocks,” Young wrote.
In October, President Biden’s administration asked Congress for nearly $106 billion to fund ambitious plans for Ukraine, Israel, and US border security.
However, passing any such funding in the Republican-controlled House has become all but impossible, as aid for Ukraine has become a politically divisive issue.
In her letter, Young said that if funding was cut off from Ukraine, it would only make a Russian victory more likely.
“I must stress that helping Ukraine defend itself and secure its future as a sovereign, democratic, independent, and prosperous nation advances our national security interests,” Young wrote.
By mid-November, 97% of the $62.3 billion in supplemental funding the US Defense Department received had been used up, along with all of the $4.7 billion in military assistance fund allocated to aiding Ukraine.
While Ukraine’s other allies are continuing to aid the nation, Young said that Washigntington’s support was not replaceable and essential in keeping the region and the US safe.
“It prevents larger conflict in the region that could involve NATO and put US forces in harm’s way and deters future aggression, making us all safer,” Young said.