Russia Condemns US Aid to Ukraine as Escalation in Hybrid War

Moscow: Russia has criticized US lawmakers’ approval of an additional $60.84 billion in aid for Ukraine, framing it as an escalation of Washington’s involvement in what they term as a hybrid war against Moscow. This move, they argue, will only lead to a humiliating outcome akin to past conflicts like Vietnam or Afghanistan.

The ongoing conflict stems from President Vladimir Putin’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, resulting in a significant deterioration of relations between Russia and the West. The US House of Representatives recently passed a $95 billion legislative package supporting Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, despite objections from certain factions within the Republican party.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned the US’s deeper involvement, accusing Washington of pushing Ukraine into a prolonged conflict with Russia. She warned of Russia’s resolute response to this escalation.

While the US has refrained from deploying troops directly to Ukraine, it has provided substantial military aid. CIA Director William Burns emphasized the importance of US support for Ukraine to prevent defeat on the battlefield.

Russia currently controls about 18% of Ukraine, primarily in the eastern and southern regions, and continues to gain ground despite Ukrainian efforts. Moscow dismisses the impact of US aid on altering the course of the conflict.

Zakharova criticized the US for viewing Ukrainian lives as expendable and suggested that Washington is banking on Ukraine’s endurance until the upcoming US presidential election in November.

Additionally, the US legislative package includes provisions to seize frozen Russian assets, which Russia denounces as theft benefiting US defence companies.