The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine remains a pressing concern, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warning of the danger if Russia were to emerge victorious. Zelensky emphasized that the consequences would extend beyond Ukraine and called for urgent international support. Meanwhile, President Biden is set to meet with top congressional leaders to discuss his funding request for Ukraine, Israel, and border issues.
The supplemental spending bill proposed by President Biden has faced delays due to Republican demands for changes to border and immigration policies. However, the White House is urging Congress to swiftly approve additional funding for Ukraine. The administration has already exhausted its presidential drawdown authority and funding, with the last security assistance package authorized on December 27.
Democratic Senator Michael Bennett of Colorado, a strong advocate for Ukraine, expressed the urgency of the situation. He stressed that the battle goes beyond Ukraine and is a fight for democracy worldwide. Bennett underlined the need for bipartisan support in Congress to ensure the continuation of assistance to Ukraine. Additionally, he highlighted the repercussions of failing to support Ukraine, such as rising food and fuel prices and the erosion of the United States' commitment to democracy.
The current holdup in Congress centers around negotiations concerning immigration. Bennett acknowledged that the immigration issue has reached a critical point, with thousands of individuals being smuggled across the southern border by transnational gangs. He emphasized that it is time for both Democrats and Republicans to work together and address the broken immigration system.
Bennett also discussed the importance of the child tax credit, a policy he strongly supports. While an agreement has been reached on a $70+ billion tax deal that expands the tax credit, it falls short of the expanded version in the American Rescue Plan. Bennett acknowledged the criticism from leaders like Rosa DeLauro but affirmed that the more modest approach will still benefit millions of children and help lift families out of poverty.
In conclusion, the situation in Ukraine remains critical, with urgent funding needed to support the country's fight against Russia. The immigration issue also demands immediate attention and bipartisan efforts in Congress to address the broken system. Furthermore, the child tax credit, while not meeting all expectations, will still make a significant impact on reducing child poverty in the United States.
