The situation in Ukraine is becoming increasingly dire as the Russian invasion continues to escalate. In response to the urgent need for aid, the US has sent a new shipment of weapons to help Ukraine defend itself. These weapons, seized from ‘stateless’ vessels intercepted by US forces, include thousands of AK-47s, machine guns, sniper rifles, RPG-7 rocket launchers, and ammunition.
Despite this aid, concerns remain about the insufficient support being provided to Ukraine. The US government is working to pass a larger aid package of around 60 billion dollars, but Republican opposition has stalled its progress. In the meantime, the US has had to find creative ways to secure funding for Ukraine, including using savings from arms contracts.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the strengthening of the China-Russia alliance. China’s increased cooperation with Russia, including the provision of geospatial intelligence and military equipment, has raised alarm bells in the West. The US has warned its allies about the potential implications of this partnership, which could tip the balance in the war in Ukraine.
In response to these developments, President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have engaged with Chinese leaders to express their concerns. The US is urging its allies to redouble their efforts in the face of the growing cooperation between Russia and China, which poses a significant threat to US interests. As the chess game in Ukraine continues to unfold, the stakes have never been higher.
