The United States is poised to announce a substantial defense support package for Ukraine amounting to $1.25 billion. This development comes as the Biden administration intensifies efforts to provide maximum support to Kyiv before stepping down on January 20.
This significant military aid package is expected to include a variety of munitions. Notably, it will contain equipment for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and the HAWK air defense systems. Additionally, the package will provide Ukraine with Stinger missiles as well as 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds. Details of the package were disclosed by U.S. officials under the condition of anonymity, as the information was not yet public.
The urgency of this aid delivery is underscored by recent escalations in the conflict. Russia has ramped up attacks on Ukraine’s power facilities, though Ukraine reports a successful interception of numerous missiles and drones. Fierce battles continue near the Russian border region of Kursk, with reports of Russian forces bolstered by thousands of North Korean troops aiming to reclaim areas seized by Ukrainian forces.
Previously in the month, senior defense officials commented on the challenges of distributing the full $5.6 billion in Pentagon-approved weapons and equipment for Ukraine before the January transition of presidential office. Concerns prevail among U.S. and European leaders about the possibility of a shift in U.S. policy under the incoming administration, which might affect further assistance to Ukraine.
The assistance falls under the presidential drawdown authority, a mechanism allowing for swift delivery by transferring existing Pentagon stockpiles directly to Ukraine. This new round of aid will reduce the remaining allocation to approximately $4.35 billion.
Additional financial resources, approximately $1.2 billion, are available under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. These funds are earmarked for longer-term projects, involving weapons contracts with delivery timelines extending beyond a year. Officials anticipate utilizing these funds fully before year’s end, further bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
Including this new package, the total U.S. security aid to Ukraine has exceeded $64 billion since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022. This substantial support reflects ongoing U.S. commitment amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics and the pressing need to fortify Ukraine militarily.
The impending U.S. military aid package exemplifies continued dedication to supporting Ukraine amid heightened tensions and geopolitical shifts. This effort is a preemptive measure to reinforce Ukraine’s defense stance before the administrative change in Washington.
Source: Sun-sentinel
