On Friday, the United States is set to reveal a new military aid package worth $400 million for Ukraine, coinciding with what appears to be a remarkable Russian offensive in the Kharkiv region.
The aid package, which utilizes weapons already in U.S. inventory, encompasses a range of armaments, including Patriot missiles, Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, Bradley fighting vehicles, mine-protected vehicles, Javelin anti-armor systems, and assorted munitions.
This allocation follows extensive debates in Congress over authorizing an additional $60 billion in military assistance for Ukraine. Last month, lawmakers passed a national security supplemental bill, which included provisions for supporting regions such as the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific, awaiting President Joe Biden’s approval.
While the National Security Council has yet to comment, sources familiar with the matter, including two U.S. officials and a congressional notification obtained by POLITICO, have provided details on the impending announcement, preferring anonymity before the official release.
US prepares new $400 million military aid package for Ukraine
The Biden administration’s assessment underscores Ukraine’s need for American aid to maintain its defensive positions. However, with the receipt of U.S.-supplied weaponry, Ukraine aims not only to hold its ground but also to reclaim territory seized by Russia potentially.
The latest offensive in the Kharkiv region poses another severe challenge for Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Russia’s ground assault on Friday, prompting Ukraine to mobilize reserve units swiftly to counter the attack.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s prior declaration of creating a “sanitary zone” to shield Russian forces from Ukrainian strikes possibly underpins this offensive. The recent move follows clandestine long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems deliveries to Ukraine, further bolstering its defensive capabilities.
Germany has pledged additional military support to Ukraine, indicating a coordinated effort among allies to reinforce Ukraine’s position. Adm. Antony Radakin of the U.K. emphasized Ukraine’s strategic advantage with increased military aid, projecting serious losses for Russia in the ongoing conflict.
