Amidst growing anxieties over Donald Trump's potential return and waning US support, France and Germany signed crucial security pacts with Ukraine on Friday, offering long-term military and economic aid. This timely action comes as the Biden administration's $95 billion foreign aid package, including critical assistance for Ukraine, faces political gridlock in Congress.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky embarked on a whirlwind tour of Europe, securing vital pacts with both France and Germany. These agreements aim to fulfill the G7's commitments to Kyiv after NATO declined Ukraine's membership bid, bolstering the nation's defense against Russia's aggression.
With US aid in limbo, the onus falls increasingly on European nations. The Senate-passed package, crucial for replenishing Kyiv's depleted arsenal, stands stalled in the House, fueled by Republican skepticism and Trump's isolationist agenda.
Trump's vocal advocacy for a deal with Putin and disregard for NATO commitments have sent shivers down European spines. Should he regain the presidency, Europe might face the daunting task of doubling its military support for Ukraine.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz pledged €1.1 billion in fresh military aid, including tanks, artillery, and air-defense systems. Germany also committed to demining Ukrainian territory, securing its energy infrastructure, and aiding reconstruction.
President Emmanuel Macron announced €3 billion in additional military aid for the year, exceeding the EU's earlier €54 billion package. He emphasized adaptability in response to potential US shortfalls.
Both agreements extend for a decade, encompassing military support, economic and reconstruction assistance, and legal aid in pursuing accountability for the war crimes committed by Russia.
Back in January, the UK signed a similar pact, pledging £2.5 billion in aid for the year.
Both Scholz and Zelensky urged US lawmakers to expedite the passage of the stalled aid package, highlighting the critical gap it creates in Ukraine's defense. Zelensky lamented, "Unfortunately, we have seen a drop in support from our partners."
