Biden Urges Congress to Stop Playing Games and Secure Aid Package for Ukraine

 US President Joe Biden has expressed his frustration with the brinkmanship surrounding the partial shutdown of the federal government. Despite the removal of aid for Ukraine from a funding package, Biden assured allies that support for Kyiv's war efforts will continue. However, he emphasized the urgency of securing an aid package as time is running out, with the short-term funding bill set to expire in mid-November. Biden called on Congress to cease playing games with funding and urged House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to prevent another shutdown crisis. He also emphasized the need for long-term funding legislation to avoid last-minute uncertainty for the American people.

Biden's commitment to Ukraine and condemnation of the brinksmanship was reiterated in an address from the White House. He assured American allies, the American people, and the people of Ukraine that they can count on the US support and that the United States will not abandon Ukraine. Biden emphasized the urgent need for Congress to pass a new assistance package for Ukraine in order to combat the Russian invasion. He criticized Republicans for dropping aid for Ukraine in the compromise deal to avoid a government shutdown and called for an end to the brinksmanship.

The resolution to avert a government shutdown was made possible with the help of Democrats in the House. President Biden's budget director, Shalanda Young, commended the over 200 Democrats who voted to prevent the shutdown and urged lawmakers to resume work on longer-term funding legislation. Young criticized previous Republican-led attempts at funding legislation, which included significant budget cuts, and commended House Speaker Kevin McCarthy for fulfilling his duty to the American people in putting forth a bipartisan bill for a vote.

While the funding bill passed without providing financial assistance for Ukraine, Biden and Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell expressed their commitment to providing sustained support for Ukraine's security and economy. A separate bill focused on Ukraine funding is expected to be taken up in the House. Young expressed confidence in the majority of Congress understanding the importance of standing with Ukraine against Russia's aggression.

Overall, the articles highlight President Biden's determination to support Ukraine and his frustration with the brinkmanship surrounding the funding issues. They also emphasize the need for Congress to pass a new aid package and to work on long-term funding legislation to avoid future crises.