Borrell: "Many Analysts Expect Major Russian Offensive This Summer"

Wires reporting comments from High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, stating that, "many analysts expect a major Russian offensive this summer."

• Borrell adds: "It is this spring and summer that the outcome of the war in Ukraine will be decided... Ukraine cannot wait until the results of the next US elections."
• Borrell met yesterday with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington to underscore, "steadfast transatlantic unity to support Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian aggression," according to a State Dept readout.
• Borrell's comments come as a 'Plan B' to force the House of Representatives to consider legislation on Ukraine aid fails to gain significant buy-in. Two discharge motions (one, two) which would bring a foreign aid bill to the House of Representatives floor remain well below the 218 signatures required.
• House Foreign Affairs Rep Mike McCaul (R-TX) is reportedly leading talks to draft a new foreign aid bill which would fund Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Politico reports that the final package, likely to come after the conclusion of FY24 appropriations next week, could reflect much of the Senate-passed bill which is indefinitely stalled.
• Max Cohen at Punchbowl notes that McCaul said “I don't want to get into personal conversations with him, but it is my belief that he will,” when asked if House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) would be willing to put a House foreign aid bill on the floor.