Joe Biden raises alarm on US being pulled into direct clash with Russia

US President Joe Biden has expressed concern that the United States could be drawn into a direct confrontation with Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This statement comes in the wake of Russia’s extensive aerial assault across Ukraine, which resulted in significant civilian casualties and damage.
Biden’s remarks followed the largest aerial attack by Russia on Ukraine since the conflict began, involving approximately 110 missiles targeting various civilian structures, including hospitals and a shopping center. This attack led to at least 31 deaths and over 120 injuries, as reported by Ukrainian officials and cited by Reuters.
“Overnight, Russia launched its largest aerial assault on Ukraine since this war began,” Biden said. “It is a stark reminder to the world that, after nearly two years of this devastating war, Putin’s objective remains unchanged. He seeks to obliterate Ukraine and subjugate its people. He must be stopped.”
The ongoing war, which has lasted for 22 months, has heightened tensions between Russia and Nato members, who have been supporting Ukraine with substantial military aid. However, there has been a growing hesitancy in countries like the US to continue this support, especially among Republican lawmakers who have stalled additional funding for Ukraine, linking it to a broader deal that includes increased aid for America’s immigration system.
Biden highlighted that Ukrainian forces were able to intercept several of the missiles and drones launched by Russia, thanks to the air defense systems provided by the US. However, he warned that without urgent congressional action, the US might be unable to continue supplying Ukraine with weapons and essential air defense systems.
The President has previously cautioned Republicans that withholding aid to Ukraine could pose a security threat to Nato and, consequently, to the US. The White House recently announced a final aid package for Ukraine, totaling $250 million.
“The stakes of this fight extend far beyond Ukraine,” Biden reiterated. “They affect the entirety of the Nato alliance, the security of Europe, and the future of the transatlantic relationship. When dictators and autocrats are allowed to run roughshod in Europe, the risk rises that the United States gets pulled in directly. And the consequences reverberate around the world. We cannot let our allies and partners down. We cannot let Ukraine down. History will judge harshly those who fail to answer freedom’s call.”
Biden has requested Congress to approve a $110 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other national security needs, but this request has faced repeated opposition from GOP lawmakers.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, in a recent news conference, emphasized that Republicans’ main concern in negotiations with Democrats over additional aid to Ukraine is to implement comprehensive changes to US border policy. Johnson affirmed that supporting Ukraine remains a priority.
(With inputs from agencies)