On May 21, 2022, the Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 was signed into law by President Biden. This law includes $40.15 billion in financial support and is intended to support important Defense Department activities, including training, equipment, weapons, logistics support, supplies and services, salaries and stipends, sustainment, and intelligence support to the military and national security forces of Ukraine. This support is a critical component in Ukraine, translating success on the battlefield into a successful, enduring democratic government that can withstand pressures from all enemies, including Russia.
Despite providing necessary relief and assistance for Ukraine, we must now consider how Ukraine will use the support provided by the United States. Congress’ next steps should include passage of initiatives to support Ukrainian government resilience. Such programs are a key component to ensuring Ukraine secures a strong, ethical governance foundation. Side-by-side mentoring is one of the single best resiliency tools and one the U.S. could easily implement in Ukraine.
The world is rightfully supporting Ukraine in the struggle against unwarranted Russian aggression. Long after the battles are over and the fighting has ended, success will be contingent upon on a government in Kiev that has the confidence and support of the Ukrainian people. Helping Ukraine establish competent and capable institutions will require just as much effort and focus as is being demonstrated on the battlefields today. Now is the time to build those foundations.
