U.S. to Send $1.7 Billion in Military Aid to Ukraine

The United States announced on Monday that it will be sending $1.7 billion in military aid to Ukraine, which includes a variety of munitions such as air defense systems, artillery, mortars, and anti-tank and anti-ship missiles. This aid package consists of $1.5 billion in funding for long-term contracts through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, along with an additional $200 million in immediate military aid from Pentagon stockpiles.

The decision to provide this military aid comes in the wake of the recent NATO summit in Washington, where allies discussed bolstering support for Ukraine in its conflict against Russian forces. During the summit, President Joe Biden pledged to send a Patriot missile battery to Ukraine, fulfilling a request made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In addition to the weapons mentioned, the aid package will also include air defense interceptors, rockets, artillery, and anti-tank weapons. The Pentagon will utilize presidential drawdown authority to provide these weapons directly from its shelves, ensuring a swift delivery to Ukraine.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has sent over $55.4 billion in security assistance to the country. This latest aid package marks the ninth military aid package provided to Ukraine since late April, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defensive efforts.

With this new infusion of weapons and support, Ukraine’s defensive capabilities will be bolstered, allowing Ukrainian forces to continue fighting bravely and repelling Russia’s advances. This aid serves as a crucial lifeline for Ukraine as it navigates through a challenging and volatile geopolitical landscape.