U.S. Treasury Secretary: Failure to Approve Aid to Ukraine is a Gift to Putin and the Islamic Republic

Janet Yellen, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, once again urged Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House, on Thursday to quickly approve a $61 billion military and economic aid package for Ukraine. Yellen stated that the 'inaction of Congress' regarding the approval of new U.S. aid to Ukraine is like giving 'a gift' to Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and other hostile governments. Ukrainian forces are facing ammunition shortages in their fight against the Russian invasion. According to Reuters, Yellen made this request in remarks at the beginning of a bilateral meeting with Robert Habeck, the German Minister of Economy, in Washington. Yellen said, 'As the House of Representatives continues to delay, Russia's dominance is increasing, and Ukraine has been forced to ration ammunition and equipment.' Members of the U.S. Congress are gathering on Thursday evening in the Capitol for the annual State of the Union address by the U.S. President. Reports indicate that the Islamic Republic of Iran has provided missiles, drones, and other weapon systems to Russia. Yellen also mentioned that funding support for Ukraine will be conditional on further reforms, in addition to the current 'strong' transparency and oversight. John Kirby told Voice of America that Biden will emphasize continued support for Ukraine in the 'State of the Union' address. The House of Representatives approved part of the federal budget; with Senate approval, a partial shutdown will be avoided. The continuation of Russian night attacks; the Ukrainian army reported that they shot down dozens of Russian drones. Reuters: Europe wants the Union's arms industry to take on a 'war economy' status. Biden's fourth annual 'State of the Union' address coincides with the continuation of two major wars in the Middle East and Europe.