U.S. sending $1 billion aid package to Ukraine
Our Secretary of State John Kerry  went to the press this morning to discuss violations Russia is imposing on in Ukraine. Secretary Kerry stated that it is very evident that Russia is wrongfully violating international laws. After Ukraine announced the need for assistance from the United Nations, a decision has been reached. Kerry announced this morning that the United States will be there to help aid and support the Ukrainian people. The U.S. will be giving Ukraine $1 billion in loans to help aid for a new government. The aid is to help the nation in raising their energy prices to escape from dependency from Russia’s energy.

Kerry stated to the people of Kiev and the U.S. that it is very evident that the claims behind Russia’s decision to occupy Crimea are invalid due to a lack of evidence. Even U.S. President Barack Obama has come forth and stated that Russia is without a doubt violating the international laws. CNN reported that Obama stated, “I know (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin seems to have a different set of lawyers making a different set of interpretations, but I don’t think that’s fooling anybody. I think everybody recognizes that although Russia has legitimate interests in what happens in a neighboring state that does not give it the right to use force as a means of exerting influence inside of that state.”

Alongside the aid, Kerry is asking for Russia to alleviate the situation and if they refuse, then the UN has no choice but to step in to help. In doing so, the UN will make efforts to isolate Russia, mainly politically, but they will see that Russia is isolated economically and diplomatically as well. Fearing that Russia may have other plans up their sleeves for the Ukraine, the U.S. is planning to create sanctions within the next few days to also assist during this time.

Meashel (@meashelmonique)