WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. has announced a new $400 million package of military aid for Ukraine to help the country fend off advances by Russian troops in the northeast Kharkiv region. This aid includes a variety of weapons and equipment, such as artillery, anti-aircraft and anti-tank munitions, armored vehicles, patrol boats, and missiles. The U.S. is utilizing presidential drawdown authority to quickly send these weapons from existing stockpiles.
In addition to this aid package, the State Department approved an emergency sale of High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) to Ukraine for an estimated $30 million. The White House national security spokesman noted that this assistance is intended to help Ukraine defend against Russian efforts to capture Kharkiv. Despite initial incursions by Russia into nearby areas, the U.S. does not anticipate major breakthroughs.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. has provided about $50.6 billion in military assistance. The Biden administration has been working to expedite aid to Ukraine, with previous packages totaling $1 billion and $6 billion, funded through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. The latest package aims to address Ukraine’s shortages of ammunition and manpower as Moscow gains an edge on the battlefield.
This aid comes amidst ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with Ukraine facing a difficult situation in the east as Russian forces continue their advances. President Zelenskyy has expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the new weapons will enable Ukraine to push back against Russian aggression. The U.S. remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts and helping the country withstand attacks in the coming months.
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