Until now, the U.S. Congress had been approving billions for Ukraine smoothly. However, this well-oiled machine jammed last week.

The U.S. is facing a crisis due to the threat of a default, which could lead to a so-called shutdown – no pay for government officials, closing of museums, and limits on food aid. Washington is diverting this bleak scenario for the fourth time now. Congress approved the emergency funding for the next 45 days. But the package doesn't include the military aid for Ukraine, which is equivalent to 140 billion korunas. Part of the Democrats demanded its inclusion, but the Republicans were against it. Nevertheless, U.S. President Joe Biden assured Ukraine that they can continue to count on U.S. support. What does Kyiv say about this?

In response to the non-approval of military aid, CNN interviewed Ukrainian citizens to gauge their reactions to Washington's stance. Most aren’t overly worried about the wrangling in Congress, believing everything will be resolved soon.

"It's internal U.S. politics. And Ukraine is being held hostage by this debate, this internal conflict," Ukrainian soldier Volodymyr Kostiak told CNN.

"U.S. strategic interests are so significant that Ukraine is part of them. I think domestic politics can't influence aid to Ukraine that much. There may be some glitches, but they'll be insignificant. The U.S. budget was halted twenty times in the past, and none led to any serious consequences. So I don't see it as a big issue for Ukraine," believes Kostiak.

"I can say with certainty that we truly need the support of other countries because we can't handle it on our own. Assistance is crucial. If the U.S. stops helping us, we will still fight to the last man to keep our country free. But it would indeed be easier with help," admitted Tetiana Ostapčuková.

Decline in support?
The current wrangling in Congress might indicate a deeper problem than what Ukrainians are admitting. While politicians mostly align with Kyiv, American public opinion is starting to shift away.


When the war started, 62% of Americans believed the U.S. should support Ukraine more. But a CNN survey from this August showed that the majority now oppose Congress granting more financial aid to Kyiv.


The American public is now more consumed with the migration crisis in the south and the upcoming presidential elections. Former President Donald Trump, who claims he could solve the war in 24 hours without revealing how, has a real chance of returning to the White House.