UKRAINE FUNDING TIED TO ARMY’S ABILITY TO RECRUIT SOLDIERS
It’s no secret that even though it’s indirect, the United States finds itself involved in two major global conflicts. In Europe, the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues to press on without any sort of a ceasefire or show of peace. Since the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel in October 2023, the U.S. continues to support its ally Israel as it fights back in the Gaza Strip. But both Ukraine funding and funds for Israel are affecting another ongoing issue for the American Armed Forces: recruitment. There have been years of issues for all branches, and now the Army is warning against more if budgets aren’t corrected. Suggested read: The Army Relies on the Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic to Keep Rolling
Is the U.S. Still Funding Ukraine?
Even as 2023 comes to a close, Ukraine funding continues. However, there are more obstacles than ever. The Biden administration is now working to gain around $106 billion approval from Congress. However, there are concerns about just how much longer America is going to have to pay for the war effort. Beyond the government, reports are showing that support for assistance for Ukraine is waning. Ukraine is insisting that the funds are necessary for the country to maintain its resistance to Russia. The nation has expressed concern that a stop in funding could reverse the work that has been done. However, with Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young stating that the funding well is drying up by the end of 2023, it’s a bit unsure if this will stop funding Ukraine for sure, for a while, or “forever.” Regardless of whether the United States halts financial support for the Ukrainian people, the Hamas-Israeli War is keeping America busy. As Israel’s strongest ally, the U.S. remains committed to helping the nation fight against its enemies.
How Much Funding Does Israel Get From the USA?
Since World War II, no nation has received more funding from the United States than Israel. While the increased focus on the U.S. funding for Israel is taking place because of the war with Hamas, supporting the nation is far from new. Some estimates show that the United States has provided Israel with more than $260 billion for funding in its lifetime. As of this writing, as a response to the Israeli response to Hamas, tens of billions have already found their way to our ally in the Middle East. This is also in addition to the American Armed Forces creating an enhanced presence in the region. While there is still hesitation to put boots on the ground, some military actions occurred to protect Israel and others vulnerable around the Red Sea. Related read: The First Active-Duty Female Sniper Welcomed by US Army
Budgets for Ukraine Funding and Israeli Support Affect Army’s Recruiting Abilities
Maintaining a strong military presence and providing allies with cash to maintain a war machine is not cheap. Neither is recruiting. As it would be, the U.S. Army has a problem because supporting our allies is also tied to the ability to recruit new Soldiers. Army Under Secretary Gabe Camarillo has spoken on the effects not securing funding can have, mentioning how the budget can help secure necessary media for recruitment that comes months in advance. Beyond marketing media funding, the budget also accounts for bonuses and other incentives tied to recruiting. Tens of thousands of troops went to Europe toward the beginning of the War in Ukraine because of concern from NATO that the conflict could spread. They remain there today as the fighting continues. Combined with rising tensions, new wars, and other areas of concern, budgets are under more stress. Camarillo is calling to transform how the Army recruits as virtually all military branches are struggling in their efforts. Ukraine funding and support for Israel are newer obstacles but not the full problem. The Army must continue to look at all of its recruitment efforts and right the ship if it’s going to reverse years of reeling. Read next: Here’s How Recruit Military Is Supporting Veterans Joining The Workforce