US economic support crucial for Ukraine's victory over Russia, says US special representative
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US support for the Ukrainian economy is as vital for victory over Russia as military aid, said Penny Pritzker, US Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery, in an article for The Hill on Jan. 21.
“As I finish a trip to Eastern Europe, we face an inflection point in Ukraine,” wrote Pritzker.
“With America’s help, together with more than 50 allies and partners around the world, Ukraine’s brave soldiers have withstood Russia’s onslaught, reclaimed over 50 percent of the territory Russia seized, and significantly degraded Moscow’s military capabilities.”
US security assistance not only protects Ukraine and other European countries but also enhances the combat readiness of American armed forces and creates high-paying jobs for Americans.
Supporting Ukraine is “funding Patriot air defense systems made in Arkansas. Artillery shells made in Pennsylvania, Texas, New York and nine other states. Abrams tanks made in Ohio.” noted Pritzker.
Economic support is equally important: economic resilience is a fundamental principle of Ukraine's military efforts.
“First, our economic assistance helps Ukrainians fight, as every penny of their tax revenue goes to their military,” explained Pritzker.
US economic support for Ukraine also generates additional backing from donors worldwide.
Finally, “our economic assistance is creating the basis for the greatest return on investment in terms of Ukraine’s state revenue,” Pritzker wrote.
“Think about the Black Sea. If we can combine infrastructure, defense, and private sector investment we can help Ukraine ramp up grain and steel exports to 8 million tons a month, which could add up to $5 billion per year to Ukraine’s government coffers, in turn reducing their reliance on international support.”
Pritzker also pushed for combating the post-Soviet legacy of corruption and constructing a competitive, free market Ukraine oriented towards the West.
“Our security and economic package forms the core of our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s naked aggression,” Pritzker wrote.
“If we act now, this package will send a message to friends and foes alike about American leadership, power and resolve when it comes to Ukraine winning this war and its future as a free, independent, democratic, economically prosperous country integrated into the Euro-Atlantic community.”
A meeting was held at the White House between US President Joe Biden and Congressional leaders regarding aid to Ukraine, on Jan. 17.
Biden urged legislators to immediately pass the national security law containing $61 billion in aid for Ukraine and warned of the strategic consequences of further delays.
House Speaker Mike Johnson “prodded” Biden to review immigration policy. He also wants clarity on the US strategy in Ukraine.
Senate leaders expect senators to consider the Ukraine aid and border agreement next week.
A bill to fund aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan totaling approximately $106 billion failed a procedural vote in the US Senate on Dec. 6. due to Republican demands for stricter immigration policy.
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