The standstill in the U.S. Congress preventing a US$95.3-billion aid package from being approved is “having an impact,” but American Ambassador to Canada David Cohen insists the aid will get to Ukraine.
“The delay is having an impact, period,” Cohen told CTV’s Question Period host Vassy Kapelos in an interview airing Sunday, echoing statements made by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg this week.
The aid package — which, if approved, would go to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan — has been passed in the Senate, but stalled before Congress.
U.S. President Joe Biden this week urged Congress to approve the funds, saying “supporting this bill is standing up to Putin,” and “opposing it is playing into Putin’s hands.”
Meanwhile, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is nearing the two-year mark.
“This is not a partisan issue in the United States,” Cohen insisted. “Look at what happened in the United States Senate, a very significant multi-year aid package for Ukraine, for Israel, for Taiwan, with 70 votes, a total bipartisan effort led by Republican Mitch McConnell and by Democrat Chuck Schumer.”
“What everyone is saying is right, which is if that package gets on the floor of the House, it will pass with a bipartisan vote,” he added.
Cohen also said the United States under Biden has taken on a “leadership position” when it comes to aid for Ukraine, and “what has (already) been delivered is remarkable.”
When asked what message Putin should take from the delay in approving the aid package, the ambassador said the Russian president is “smart enough to know that he shouldn’t take any comfort from the difficulty of the democratic process,” adding that domestic “political fissures” in the United States have “nothing to do with Russia or Ukraine.”
“And that is one of the prices we pay for democracy, it can sometimes be a little ugly,” Cohen said. “But I do believe that ultimately, democracy gets to the right answer.”
“And the right answer here is going to be continuing support for Ukraine for as long as it takes,” he added.
Cohen’s interview comes on the heels of news that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny — Russian President Vladimir Putin’s fiercest critic — died in prison.
The 47-year-old was serving a 19-year sentence on charges of extremism.
Cohen said Navalny’s death is a “stark reminder of just how evil and dangerous Vladimir Putin is,” while adding the U.S. has not independently confirmed the news.
“We’re operating on media reports,” he said. “But if true, I have to start with what a terrible loss this is, and a terrible loss to his family, and would extend my condolences and my country’s condolences to his family.
“And I think it’s another example of the brutality of Vladimir Putin. It’s another example of what is so important about pushing back on Russia, and on Putin,” he added.
With files from CTV’s Question Period Senior Producer Stephanie Ha
New Brunswick voters have elected a Liberal majority government, tossing out the incumbent Progressive Conservatives after six years in power and handing the reins to the first woman ever to lead the province. Liberal Leader Susan Holt spent much of the campaign rolling out proposed fixes for a health-care system racked by a doctor shortage, overcrowded emergency rooms and long wait-times. She promised to open 30 community health clinics across the province by 2028. (Oct. 22, 2024)
Susan Holt has made history in New Brunswick by becoming the first woman to serve as the leader of the province’s Liberal Party, a significant milestone in the province’s political landscape. Holt’s leadership victory signals a new era of representation, gender equality, and change in the region, which has long been dominated by male politicians.
Holt’s journey to the top has been one of perseverance and dedication. Before entering politics, she built a distinguished career in the private sector, where she held numerous leadership positions. Her experience in business development and public policy has equipped her with the skills needed to navigate the complex world of politics.
In a province where women have historically been underrepresented in politics, Holt’s election represents a watershed moment. Women’s involvement in leadership roles has been steadily increasing nationwide, but New Brunswick, like many parts of Canada, has seen slower progress in achieving gender parity. Holt’s rise to the top of the Liberal Party not only shatters a glass ceiling but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of women aiming for political leadership.
As the leader of the New Brunswick Liberal Party, Holt has laid out a vision of inclusivity and progress. Her policies focus on economic development, healthcare reform, environmental sustainability, and addressing social issues that have plagued the province. She has also emphasized the importance of transparent governance and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, making her platform both modern and forward-thinking.
Holt’s leadership arrives at a time when many voters are calling for change, especially in the face of challenges like economic uncertainty and the need for healthcare improvements. She aims to bring fresh ideas to tackle these issues while ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their background, have a voice in government decisions.
Susan Holt joins the ranks of other trailblazing women across Canada who have led provincial parties and governments. Women like former Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and Ontario’s Kathleen Wynne have paved the way, and now Holt is contributing to this growing legacy of female political leadership in Canada.
Her achievement highlights not only the growing number of women entering politics but also the demand for leaders who can bring diverse perspectives to the table. In a field often dominated by entrenched traditions, Holt’s election is a step toward a more inclusive and representative political landscape in New Brunswick.
Holt’s leadership signals a broader shift in Canadian politics, where more women and diverse voices are gaining prominence. For young women across the country, her rise serves as a powerful reminder that leadership roles are within reach, even in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
With her election, Susan Holt has proven that perseverance, skill, and a vision for change can break even the toughest barriers. Her leadership will not only reshape New Brunswick’s political future but also inspire others across Canada to pursue leadership positions and continue to challenge the status quo.
NDP Leader Carla Beck has two planned campaign events today, starting the day with an availability in Moose Jaw and then later this evening attending an event in the capital with the Regina Medical Staff Association.
Saskatchewan Party Leader Scott Moe, meanwhile, will speak in Prince Albert at the start of Voting Week in the province.
Saskatchewan residents can vote for five days starting today in the lead-up to next week’s provincial election, although polls won’t be open Sunday.
The NDP and the Saskatchewan Party are urging voters to cast their ballots early.
Voters can find their polling stations on their information cards or by visiting the Elections Saskatchewan website.
Chief electoral officer Michael Boda says there are about 810,000 registered voters in Saskatchewan.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 22, 2024.
