In the wake of rising tensions over Moscow and Tehran’s increasing alliance, President Joe Biden has reaffirmed his administration’s support for Ukraine in a bid to deter any potential aggression from its neighboring nations.
Biden’s announcement came amid growing concerns about Russia’s recent military buildup near Ukraine’s border and Iran’s reported efforts to increase its influence in the region.
In a statement released on Thursday, President Biden reiterated his commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “We support Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations and will continue to provide the necessary assistance to help it strengthen its democratic institutions, bolster its economy, and defend its territorial integrity.”
The President’s statement comes just days after Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern over Russia’s troop movements near Ukraine’s border. Blinken warned that any aggressive actions by Russia would have consequences, and that the US would stand by Ukraine in the event of an attack.
The situation in Ukraine has been a point of contention between Russia and the US for years, with Moscow annexing Crimea in 2014 and supporting separatist rebels in the country’s eastern region. Tensions have only increased in recent weeks, with Ukrainian officials reporting a surge in Russian military activity near the border.
Iran’s increasing involvement in the region has also raised alarm bells in Washington. The Islamic Republic has reportedly been providing support to Ukrainian separatists and seeking to expand its influence in the region as part of its broader strategic goals.
President Biden’s statement was welcomed by Ukrainian officials, who have been seeking stronger support from the US and its European allies in the face of Russian aggression. “We appreciate the strong and unwavering support of our partners in the US,” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said in a statement. “We stand ready to work closely with the Biden administration to ensure peace and stability in our region.”
As tensions continue to rise, the world will be watching closely to see how the US and its allies respond to the growing threat posed by Russia and Iran.