On Wednesday, the Pentagon declared that it would provide Ukraine with a package of air defense interceptors worth approximately $2.2 billion. This comes just a day after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin assured the besieged ally that significant security assistance was on the way. The package is expected to provide critical air defense capabilities to Ukraine.
The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative provides funding for securing weaponry and training through partnerships with companies, rather than relying solely on presidential drawdowns from U.S. stockpiles. This allows for greater collaboration and support from various sources in ensuring Ukraine’s security.
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According to the Department of Defense, Ukraine will be utilizing the funding to acquire interceptors specially designed for their PATRIOT and NASAMS air defense systems.
In a statement, the Pentagon has announced that the delivery of munitions will be expedited by the Biden Administration through the re-sequencing of upcoming Foreign Military Sales deliveries for Ukraine.
“Ukraine will receive the much-needed interceptors to safeguard its citizens and critical infrastructure from Russia’s airborne assaults.”
As part of its efforts, the Biden administration has revealed a new package worth $150 million under the presidential drawdown authority. This package will include various lethal items such as missiles designed for HAWK air defense systems, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor systems, as well as artillery rounds and ammunition.
In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken mentioned that this assistance would not only enhance Ukraine’s air defense against Russian attacks but also reinforce its capabilities across the front lines.
President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to President Joe Biden, Congress, and the American people for the security package provided to Ukraine. He conveyed his appreciation for the support extended by the United States in strengthening Ukraine’s security.
On X, he mentioned that the inclusion of supplementary air defense, artillery, anti-tank weaponry, and other essential items, along with the allocation of funds for procuring Patriot and NASAMS missiles, will fortify our troops and enhance our capabilities on the battlefield.
“We rely on the ongoing support of the United States to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and empower us to effectively confront Russian aggression, safeguard our citizens from Russian terror.”
Just yesterday, Austin revealed that a massive $2 billion package was being put together amidst doubts about the United States’ continued assistance to the struggling ally, especially with the upcoming election season. Today, the announcement has been made regarding this development.
Despite Biden’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine for “as long as it takes,” his expected Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump, has consistently praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, raised doubts about U.S. funding for Kyiv, and boasted about his ability to end the ongoing conflict in just one day if he were to be re-elected.
Kyiv has received over $50 billion in military assistance from the United States since Russia invaded, making the US its biggest supporter.
On Wednesday, new packages were announced to provide assistance to Ukraine. This comes after months of Republican opposition and a delay in Congress approving $60 billion in lethal aid for Ukraine, which left Kyiv’s armory depleted.
According to Blinken, the drawdown that took place on Wednesday marks the seventh one since President Biden signed the national security supplemental bill two months ago.
He stated that the new assistance would be swiftly moved to strengthen Ukraine’s defense of both its people and its territory.
“President Biden has emphasized the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine and our international coalition. We remain committed to standing by Ukraine in their efforts to maintain their sovereignty and protect their people.”
