In a stark warning, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Ukraine "will lose the war" if the United States Congress does not approve military aid to help the country resist Russia's invasion. Speaking during a video meeting of the fundraising group UNITED24, Zelensky specifically addressed the Congress, emphasizing the critical importance of their support.

Zelensky expressed concerns that if Ukraine fails to secure assistance, not only will it lose the ongoing conflict, but it will also pave the way for other countries to be targeted by Russia. His warning comes as Congress has prolonged passing a package of aid for Ukraine, leaving Kyiv grappling with manpower and ammunition shortages while Russia ruthlessly bombards Ukrainian cities and tests weak spots along the front lines.

While the US Senate recently passed a $95.3 billion foreign aid bill that includes assistance for Ukraine and Israel, House Speaker Mike Johnson has yet to schedule a vote on passing the aid package specifically for Ukraine.

Zelensky's previous statement to CNN that "millions" could die if US lawmakers fail to approve the aid package underscores the urgency of the situation. Despite initial miscalculations by Russia, which anticipated a swift victory in their invasion launched in February 2022, Ukraine successfully defended its capital and even reclaimed some territories in 2022. However, the front lines have since remained primarily static, with Russia still occupying approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory.

Although there had been hopes that Ukraine could reclaim more of its occupied territories, its counteroffensive in the summer of 2023 failed to make substantial gains against Russia's defenses, resulting in a stalemate. In recent months, Russia has intensified its attacks, leveraging its manpower and technology advantage to bombard Ukrainian cities and force retreats from strategic locations.

Franz-Stefan Gady, an associate fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, described the war in Ukraine as entering a "transitional phase," with Russia engaging in probing attacks along the front lines and preparing for a potential future offensive. While European countries have attempted to fill the aid gap left by the US, Gady emphasized that there is "no substitute" for the support Washington can provide, particularly in terms of advanced weaponry and logistical assistance such as air defense systems.

In addition to concerns about the lack of aid, Zelensky also warned of Russia's intent to introduce nuclear weapons into the debate, raising the stakes even higher in this ongoing conflict.

Zelensky expressed his gratitude to UNITED24's ambassadors for tirelessly advocating for the attention and support of the United States to aid Ukraine's fight for freedom and independence.

The fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance as the country relies on the approval of military aid from the United States to resist Russia's aggression. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Ukraine can secure the necessary support and thwart the advances of its formidable neighbor.