The current US government is considering ways to assist Ukraine as House Republicans continue to block a $95 billion foreign aid proposal, which includes $61 billion to aid Kyiv in their conflict against Russia.

During an interview with VOA on Wednesday, John Kirby, spokesperson for the National Security Council, mentioned that President Joe Biden will use his State of the Union address on Thursday to stress the necessity of ongoing assistance for Ukraine and showcase the accomplishments of his administration in reviving American leadership.

This interview has been edited to make it easier to understand and shorter in length.

Can the president successfully persuade lawmakers and House Speaker Mike Johnson to provide immediate military assistance to Ukraine?

John Kirby, the National Security Communications Adviser at the White House, stated that he does not want to speak ahead of the president’s upcoming speech. The president is eagerly anticipating the chance to address the American people, Congress, and the global community about his many achievements during his three and a half years as the leader of the United States. These accomplishments span various areas including the economy, education, healthcare, employment, and demonstrating strong American leadership on the world stage.

American leadership provides advantages such as the ability to bring people together and significant resources. It also allows for efforts to influence and impact the decision-making of other world leaders, especially those who may be seen as adversaries, in ways that align with our national security interests. Supporting Ukraine is a priority, both in aiding their soldiers in their fight against Russian aggression and in terms of our own national security. As the landscape in Europe has shifted, it is important to not abandon Ukraine to Putin’s desires, as it could bring him closer to NATO’s borders.

According to VOA, Ukraine is experiencing limited resources and territorial losses as a result of inadequate aid from the United States. Do you believe there is a solution in the supplementary package or should Ukrainians be getting ready for a scenario without American aid?

Kirby stated that they will continue to collaborate with Congress to pass the supplemental, as it is crucial. They are also discussing with allies and partners to explore potential contributions, acknowledging that they are already contributing. Additionally, they are reviewing processes within the government and across the administration to determine if any further support can be provided to Ukraine. However, none of these efforts can match the extent and magnitude that the supplemental would offer.

Is there potentially a backup plan available?

Kirby states that they have always explored additional opportunities, but nothing compares to the value of the supplemental. There is no alternative that can replicate its benefits. While there is no magical solution, they are still considering different options, as the current conditions in the east require them to do so.

Do you think the supplemental will still be approved?

Kirby: It’s hard to make a definite statement. The decision ultimately lies with Speaker Johnson. Both Speaker Johnson and I recognize that if the vote is taken, it will be approved. There is strong bipartisan backing for the issue from both parties in the House. The real question is: Will Speaker Johnson bring it to a vote? Only he can provide an answer to that.

The Voice of America reported that six nations, namely the UK, Canada, Italy, Germany, Denmark, and France, have recently entered into individual security pacts with Kyiv in order to provide Ukraine with a sense of security prior to its inclusion in NATO. Can we anticipate a similar agreement being formed between the US and Ukraine in the near future?

Kirby: For a considerable amount of time, we have been collaborating with the Ukrainian people to ensure that they have the necessary resources for this ongoing conflict. We are also discussing their future needs, as they will continue to share a border with Russia after the war concludes. The United States is engaging in talks with our Ukrainian counterparts to determine how we can assist them in safeguarding their national security and the interests of the Ukrainian people in the long term. I am not able to disclose any specific information at this time, but these discussions are taking place between us and the Ukrainians.

VOA: Additional details regarding the State of the Union – How will the president approach the deteriorating state in Gaza and the U.S.’s strategic rivalry with China?

Kirby: Again, I’m not going to get ahead of the president’s speech, but I would point you to the things that he has said before. On Israel: How important it is to make sure Israel can defend itself against the still viable threat by Hamas, making sure that more humanitarian assistance gets in [to Gaza, and] making sure we get the hostages out. Trying to get this new hostage deal in place so that we can get a six-week temporary cease-fire to reduce the suffering on the ground and again try to find ways to help alleviate suffering of the Palestinian people.

Regarding China, as you are aware, the president recently concluded a meeting with President Xi Jinping in San Francisco. Their dialogue was productive and positive. While we may not see eye to eye with China on all matters, the president firmly believes that this bilateral relationship is of utmost importance and it is our mutual responsibility as major powers and leaders to manage it in a responsible manner.

According to VOA, the president expressed concern about a hazardous scenario if a cease-fire is not implemented before Ramadan. What is the implication of his statement? Is he cautioning against further violence and the possibility of it spreading to neighboring regions?

Kirby explains that Ramadan is a significant and delicate time for Muslims, especially in the Middle East where actions hold greater significance and consequences. Therefore, there is a collective desire to establish a temporary cease-fire as quickly as possible. While it would have been ideal for it to already be in effect, efforts are still being made to achieve it. As the start of Ramadan approaches, any actions taken will be considered in the context of this sacred time for Muslims globally.

The White House extended invitations to both Olena Zelenska, the first lady of Ukraine, and Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of a late Russian opposition leader, to attend President Biden’s State of the Union address. However, both declined. What was the intended message behind this invitation?

Kirby: While we understand and respect their decision not to attend, it is clear that Ukraine holds great importance as a partner. They have shown incredible bravery in their ongoing battle for the past two years. This event was a chance for us to acknowledge America’s support for Ukraine and commend the Ukrainian people for their unwavering courage and strength.

Once again, we grieved the loss of Alexey Navalny and we commend his courage and bravery. It is imperative that the Kremlin takes responsibility for what occurred. The president seized the opportunity to personally offer his condolences to Navalny’s wife and sister, representing the sentiments of the entire American populace.

Source: voanews.com