Ukraine's Former Leader Criticizes Delay in US Military Aid

Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko has criticized the months-long delay in the US Congress approving a new military aid package for Ukraine. In an interview with the Associated Press, Yushchenko called the delay a "colossal waste of time" that benefited Russia and undermined the morale of Ukraine's supporters.

Yushchenko, who led Ukraine from 2005 to 2010, argued that the delay sent a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he could continue his attacks on Ukraine without facing significant consequences. He also said the delay sowed doubts among Ukraine's other Western backers about the country's prospects and the outcome of the conflict.

While Yushchenko acknowledged that the delay was not "fatal" to Ukraine, he urged Western supporters not to waste time making political decisions. He emphasized that the war effort requires constant attention and that the front lines are active 24 hours a day.

The delay in approving the aid package came as Ukraine was running low on ammunition and weaponry. The previous funding package from Washington had run out earlier in the year. The new emergency spending bill, which includes $61 billion for Ukraine's war effort, was finally approved in late May after languishing in Congress since August 2022.

Despite the approval of the aid package, Ukrainian military commanders have expressed concern about the slow pace of delivery. They say it could take up to two months before the incoming supplies meet Ukraine's current military needs.

Meanwhile, the Russian Army has launched a new offensive in Ukraine's northern Kharkiv Region and is making gains near the country's second-largest city. Moscow has repeatedly warned that Western aid and weapons shipments to Ukraine will only prolong the conflict.